HUNTSVILLE – Drake State Community and Technical College has been awarded a more than $1.5 million grant as part of the U.S. Department of Labor’s latest round of Strengthening Community Colleges training grants.
Drake State is the first institution in Alabama to receive the grant, emphasizing the college’s position as a leader in workforce development and innovation in the State.
“This grant underscores Drake State’s leadership in delivering cutting-edge training programs that transform lives and strengthen the North Alabama region,” said Dr. Patricia Sims, president of Drake State. “With this funding, we will expand our impact, preparing more students for rewarding careers while supporting the workforce demands of our industry partners.”
The $1,514,520 grant is part of a $65 million investment to 18 colleges across 14 states, aimed at expanding affordable, high-quality workforce training in critical industry sectors such as advanced manufacturing.
Drake State plans to use the funding to support its Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program. The Huntsville Tech FAME chapter is designed to create a pipeline of global-best, multiskilled maintenance technicians to support manufacturers in and near Huntsville. The program empowers students with the skills needed to thrive in high-demand industries while meeting workforce needs in the region.
The Strengthening Community Colleges initiative focuses on equipping institutions such as Drake State to enhance career pathway programs and ensure equitable outcomes for underrepresented populations.
Administered by the Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, this grant highlights the unique role of community colleges in fostering partnerships that create sustainable improvements in workforce development. Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su emphasized the importance of these programs in building a stronger workforce infrastructure.
“The Biden-Harris administration is investing in training programs that end in a job, rather than a job search,” said Su. “Our Strengthening Community Colleges grantees run programs that help lift whole communities by equipping workers with the skills they need right now, while strengthening workforce infrastructure.”
To date, the Strengthening Community Colleges initiative has invested $265 million across 207 colleges in 35 states, addressing workforce priorities in communities nationwide.
For more information about Drake State’s workforce training programs, including the Huntsville Tech FAME chapter, visit www.drakestate.edu.
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