Hoyer Presents $286,899 to College of Southern Maryland's Construction & Transportation Training Program

Press Release

Yesterday, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) presented the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) with $286,899 for its Partnership for the Advancement of Construction and Transportation Training program. The program provides courses and training to meet the growing demand in the construction and transportation industries in Southern Maryland and provide workers with the skills to stay competitive in today's economy. The funds were appropriated in the FY08 Omnibus Appropriations bill passed in December, 2007.

"In Southern Maryland and in areas across the country, we are currently facing a severe shortage of skilled professionals in the building and transportation trades," said Congressman Hoyer. "Through the specialized training offered through this program the College of Southern Maryland is uniquely poised to respond to the specific workforce needs of our region and equip workers with the skills they need to excel to the top of their trade."

A good portion of the funding will be used for the development of new curriculum for the construction trades, including a new "boot camp" training model that prepares students for local apprenticeships in carpentry, HVAC and electrical work. The 10-week program will provide alternative training, particularly for the under-employed and unemployed workforce in Southern Maryland, and will also be available for new high school graduates.

"The need for trained professionals in the trades is reaching alarming levels that threaten the well-being of Southern Maryland," said CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried. "The funds secured by Congressman Hoyer will permit the College of Southern Maryland to jumpstart an innovative program that could be replicated across the country. We are deeply appreciative of Congressman Hoyer and his commitment to Southern Maryland."

Southern Maryland is the fastest growing region in the State with a projected growth of 33 percent by 2015. The tremendous growth in the residential and commercial building industries has resulted in an urgent workforce need. The workforce shortage in both the construction and transportation industries is reaching a critical point for employers in Southern Maryland, who depend on the College of Southern Maryland to attract and train workers throughout the region.

CSM, founded in 1958, is the fifth largest community college in Maryland and grown to be the centerpiece of Southern Maryland with campuses in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary's counties and more than 21,000 annual enrollments. For information about CSM, visit http://www.csmd.edu/.

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