The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $7.4 million in workforce development grant funding for 16 initiatives across Massachusetts, including a partnership between Community Action, Inc., Haverhill and Northern Essex Community College. All of the initiatives to receive funding represent partnerships with employers, training providers, and regional collaborators to train, upskill, and provide job placement for 1,161 workers for in-demand occupations in health care, education, information technology and more.

The Senator Kenneth J. Donnelly Workforce Success grants are funded by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and administered by Commonwealth Corporation through the state’s Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund. Each awarded grant aims to close the skills gap, increase access to well-paying jobs for unemployed and underemployed residents, and strengthen productivity and workforce needs among employers in regions throughout Massachusetts. Workforce Success grants fund job training and job placement for untapped talent and upskilling programs for incumbent workers. Among the 16 awarded grants, 7 grants will incorporate English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) in planned job training—an effort to reduce employment barriers such as language that some job seekers experience.

“Workforce Success Grants give residents the opportunity to gain new skills and launch careers in high-demand fields,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These programs help people earn good wages, build long-term career paths, and connect directly with employers who need their talents.”

“Investing in workforce development through programs like Workforce Success Grants is key to growing stronger local economies across Massachusetts,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “By preparing residents with the skills employers need, these grants help businesses fill critical roles, drive economic growth in every region, and ensure our communities remain vibrant and competitive.”

Community Action, Inc., Haverhill, was awarded $254,015. They will provide training and placement services, including ESOL training, to 25 unemployed and underemployed participants for Help Desk Technician, Technical Support Specialist, and Junior Systems Administrator roles. To achieve this, they will partner with NECC, Crystal Engineering, Opportunity Works, NorthEast Computer Services LLC, City of Haverhill, and Historic New England.

This article is adapted from a press release by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development