Recovery Act Supports Job Training

Press Release

Rhode Island's Congressional Delegation today announced that the Providence Economic Development Partnership will be the recipient of a $2,489,111 grant award through the Pathways out of Poverty program. Authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Pathways out of Poverty Grants are targeted in areas of high unemployment to provide low-income individuals with the skills and certifications needed to gain employment in clean energy jobs.

"This funding is another investment in jumpstarting job training in clean energy careers for more Rhode Islanders and expanding employment opportunities in communities that have been hit hardest by the Bush recession," said Senator Jack Reed.

"Investing in clean energy jobs will provide a foundation for long-term economic stability in Rhode Island," said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. "This funding will help develop a well trained work force for the new clean energy economy, and prepare unemployed Rhode Islanders for the jobs of tomorrow."

"With the jobs of tomorrow being created in new industries, this funding will help give Rhode Islanders the tools they need to compete," said Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy. "The green construction and renewable energy sectors of our state's economy will be greatly strengthened by these federal funds."

"Closing the skills gap in our state is key to making Rhode Island competitive and creating new jobs. This latest round of funding will help nearly 200 Rhode Islanders earn certifications in the field of energy efficiency and weatherization, creating a workforce with skills for the green economy while helping families save money and energy," said Congressman Jim Langevin. "I look forward to following the success of this program."

The program will serve 300 participants who will undergo an intensive four-month program that includes classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and 5 potential certifications (First Aid/CPR, OSHA, Confined Space Entry, 30-hour lead Worker, and 16-hour Asbestos Worker). Key partners include Workforce Solutions of Providence, Providence Housing Authority, Rhode Island Department of Education, Genesis Center, Providence Water Supply Board, Brown University, New England Institute of Technology, Community College of Rhode Island, and Laborers' International Union of North America.

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