HARRISBURG, PA — Young adults who were previously involved in the justice system are now entering Pennsylvania’s construction workforce after completing the first cohort of the Shapiro Administration’s Construct PA training program, state officials announced Wednesday.
What This Means for You
- Young adults ages 18 to 24 with prior justice system involvement can now access construction career pathways.
- Graduates receive industry-recognized certifications and direct employer connections.
- The program is funded through federal infrastructure dollars and will expand statewide.
Construct PA was developed after a July 2023 executive order created the Commonwealth Workforce Transformation Program, or CWTP. CWTP is a job training initiative that provides workforce development grants to companies, contractors, and unions to help meet labor demands for infrastructure projects across Pennsylvania.
The program focuses on building a skilled workforce for road, bridge, and other public works projects while creating employment pathways for young Pennsylvanians who have had contact with the justice system.
Training And Certifications
Through the expedited four-week program, participants earned a PennDOT Transportation Construction Inspector certification and received hands-on experience with earthwork equipment and concrete testing, resulting in additional specialized certifications.
Participants also completed training in worksite safety, safe driving, and flagging. Coursework included construction math, construction plan reading, professionalism, and employment skills.
Following graduation, participants are connected with employers seeking to hire construction workers. The first cohort trained in Harrisburg, and the program is expected to expand to additional communities across the Commonwealth this year.
Eligible applicants must be between 18 and 24 years old, have prior justice system contact, hold a GED or high school diploma, and possess a valid driver’s license.
Workforce Investment Strategy
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said the initiative addresses workforce needs tied to infrastructure projects. “The Shapiro Administration knows that infrastructure is critical to supporting Pennsylvanians and our economy, and maintaining and growing the industry’s workforce is crucial,” Carroll said. “The department is proud to support these graduates in building their careers while we also expand the infrastructure workforce.”
Labor and Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said Construct PA provides credentials and employer connections to young adults seeking stable careers. “Construct PA creates a clear pathway for young adults who are ready to move forward, by providing industry-recognized credentials, hands-on experience, and direct connections to employers who are hiring,” Walker said.
Since taking office, Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration has increased funding for vocational and career education programs by nearly 50 percent, from $118 million to $183 million, according to state officials.
The governor’s proposed 2026–27 budget includes $12.5 million for worker training through WEDnetPA, $6.3 million for Industry Partnerships focused on high-growth sectors such as health care and transportation, $7 million for the Schools-to-Work program, and a $1 million increase for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Federal Funding And Support Services
CWTP and Construct PA are supported by federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. The programs also provide supportive services such as assistance with childcare costs, transportation, and professional development.
Participants are identified through community partners and are provided safety gear and personal protective equipment needed to complete training and begin employment.
State officials said the initiative is intended to help address workforce shortages while connecting young adults to stable careers in construction and infrastructure projects across Pennsylvania.
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