In Montgomery, Alabama, high schools are set to receive a financial boost for their skilled trade programs, aimed at addressing the critical labor shortage in the commercial construction industry. The Alabama Construction Industry Craft Training Board has introduced a new grant targeting High School Career Tech construction programs. This initiative is designed to provide immediate funding for schools that offer programs in essential construction skills recognized by the Alabama Department of Education.
Tom McNeal, chair of the Alabama CICT board and a manager at Alabama Power’s Workforce Development program, emphasized the grant’s goal to support high schools lacking the resources for necessary equipment and materials, thus enhancing students’ opportunities to pursue careers in commercial construction. Schools can receive up to $20,000 each year for each construction program, with a limit of five programs per school. The funding can cover various needs, including building materials, safety gear, and educational resources.
Ken Sealy, an education administrator for workforce development at ALSDE, highlighted the importance of industry support for the success of Career and Technical Education in Alabama. He noted that the new funding model would simplify the process for local districts to provide commercial construction programs to high school students, fostering a collaboration that builds a more robust and dynamic workforce in Alabama. This initiative aims to closely align workforce and education goals, contributing to the state’s growth.
For more details on the grant, eligibility criteria, or the application process, interested parties are encouraged to visit the CICT’s website at alcict.com.
