Press Release
U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2 Million to Bolster Manufacturing in Williamsport
Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
August 9, 2017
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross today announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2 million grant to Pennsylvania College of Technology of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, for the expansion of the college’s Metal Trades Center at its Williamsport campus. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 23 jobs, and spur $448,864 in private investment.
“The Trump Administration is committed to helping American workers who have borne the brunt of an unfair status quo,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “I look forward to seeing how the expansion of the College of Technology’s Metal Trades Center will help local workers gain the skills necessary to compete in today’s marketplace.”
The college’s Metal Trade Center will provide certificate, Associates and Bachelors level programs in welding to address the regional demand for high-skilled welders. The Center’s expansion will support an additional 60 students annually. Graduates who obtain jobs in the welding industry are expected to earn wages above the regional average.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.