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Lancaster County Businesses Receive Grants for Workforce Training

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/02 .. esses-receive-grants-for-workforce-training.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 19:40 GMT by WHTM
      Locales: Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES

LANCASTER, PA - February 2, 2026 - Lancaster County is emerging as a key hub for advanced manufacturing workforce development, as evidenced by recent state funding allocations to two local businesses. A.M. Fabricating in Manheim and Winkle Plastics in Strasburg were announced today as recipients of a combined $157,500 grant from Governor Shapiro's Workforce Development Board, aimed at bolstering skills training and addressing critical workforce gaps in Pennsylvania.

The $84,000 awarded to A.M. Fabricating will facilitate the training of 25 employees in cutting-edge advanced manufacturing techniques. These skills will be crucial for the company to maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry. The specifics of the training program are reported to include modules on CNC machining, robotic welding, and advanced materials handling - all areas where skilled labor is increasingly scarce. A.M. Fabricating has been a cornerstone of the Manheim industrial park for over 30 years, specializing in custom metal fabrication for a diverse range of sectors including aerospace, automotive, and construction. Company representatives indicated that this funding will allow them to upskill their existing workforce, rather than relying solely on recruitment in a tight labor market.

Winkle Plastics, located in Strasburg, will receive $73,500 to train 20 employees in specialized plastics manufacturing processes. The demand for skilled technicians in plastics processing has been steadily rising, driven by the increasing use of plastics in various industries - from packaging and medical devices to automotive components and consumer goods. Sources within Winkle Plastics have shared that the training will focus on injection molding, extrusion techniques, and quality control procedures. They also plan to integrate modules on sustainable plastics manufacturing and recycling processes, aligning with growing environmental concerns and industry standards. Winkle Plastics has seen substantial growth in recent years due to its commitment to innovation and customized solutions, and this funding is expected to further accelerate that trajectory.

A Statewide Initiative: Investing in Pennsylvania's Future

This funding isn't an isolated event; it's part of a larger, statewide initiative spearheaded by Governor Shapiro to proactively address the skilled labor shortage impacting numerous industries across Pennsylvania. The Workforce Development Board, established last year, has been tasked with identifying key workforce needs and allocating resources to programs that demonstrate the greatest potential for impact. The Board's criteria prioritize projects that offer demonstrable linkages to employer needs, focus on in-demand skills, and provide pathways to sustainable employment.

According to recent data released by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, the state faces a projected shortfall of over 80,000 skilled workers by 2028, particularly in the advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors. This shortage poses a significant threat to the state's economic competitiveness and future growth. The Governor's administration views investments in workforce development as a crucial strategy for mitigating this risk and attracting new businesses to the Commonwealth.

Lancaster County: A Model for Workforce Development? The selection of two Lancaster County businesses as grant recipients is drawing attention to the region's proactive approach to workforce development. Lancaster County Career & Technology Center (LCCTC) has consistently been recognized as a leader in providing high-quality vocational training programs, and its close collaboration with local employers is seen as a key factor in the county's success. The LCCTC offers a variety of programs related to advanced manufacturing and plastics technology, creating a pipeline of skilled workers for companies like A.M. Fabricating and Winkle Plastics.

The success of these two companies could potentially serve as a model for other businesses and communities across Pennsylvania. The Workforce Development Board is actively monitoring the outcomes of these projects and plans to use the learnings to inform future funding decisions. There is a growing consensus that investing in existing employees through upskilling programs, like those being implemented by A.M. Fabricating and Winkle Plastics, is often more effective - and cost-efficient - than relying solely on external recruitment.

The grants awarded today represent not just financial assistance, but a strategic investment in Pennsylvania's future. By equipping workers with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st-century economy, Governor Shapiro's administration hopes to create a more resilient, competitive, and prosperous state for all.