ERIE – The Greater Erie Community Action Committee (GECAC) was recently awarded nearly $165,000 to launch a workforce development initiative preparing individuals with employment barriers for careers in the plastics manufacturing industry. This grant is funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Manufacturing Training to Career Grant program.
The program brings together partners including the Erie County Economic Development Department, the American Injection Molding Institute (AIM), A+ Strategies and Corporate Solutions, the Northwest Industrial Resource Center (NWIRC) and PA CareerLink, along with several local plastics manufacturers.
Participants will complete two weeks of job-readiness and soft skills training, followed by hands-on industry instruction through AIM’s Plastics 101 curriculum. The program will conclude with a job fair where trainees can connect directly with employers.
“This program creates a pathway for individuals who may not yet be ready for traditional pre-apprenticeships but have the potential to succeed in manufacturing careers,” said Marybelle Martin, GECAC’s workforce director.
Two training classes are scheduled to begin in April and will serve up to 40 participants. Graduates will have the opportunity to pursue entry-level manufacturing jobs with clear pathways for career advancement.
Individuals interested in learning more about the program may contact Martin at mmartin@gecac.org.