The Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board says it will use a portion of newly awarded federal funding to expand job training programs for manufacturers, healthcare providers and construction-related employers across Northwest Connecticut.
The funding comes from an $8 million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor to the Connecticut Department of Labor through the Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund.
Each workforce board in Connecticut will receive a soon-to-be announced share of the total grant.
NRWIB officials said the funding will help employers train and retain both new and existing workers while encouraging long-term investment in the regional talent pipeline. Companies participating in the program will be eligible for outcome-based reimbursements to offset training costs.
“We are committed to putting these federal dollars to work for our regional businesses,” said Catherine Awwad, NRWIB president and CEO. “This grant ensures that when our employers invest in training, they are directly supported in those efforts. It’s a win-win: stronger businesses and a more skilled workforce across Northwest Connecticut.”
NRWIB is inviting employers in manufacturing, health care, and the architecture, engineering and construction industries to join its regional sector partnerships.
Employers interested in joining the initiative can contact NRWIB through its offices in Waterbury, Torrington or Danbury.