FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 30, 2024
Mountain Gateway Community College, Total Action for Progress secures renewal of WORC Grant to enhance workforce development programs
Covington, VA – Total Action for Progress (TAP) has been awarded the renewal of the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) grant, with Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) as its partner. This funding supports the Appalachian CareerForge initiative, a collaboration between TAP and MGCC.
This renewed funding will bolster workforce development initiatives in parts of the Appalachian region of Virginia and West Virginia, supporting essential training programs that equip local residents with the skills needed for in-demand jobs.
Originally awarded in 2020, the WORC grant has been instrumental in assisting residents across Alleghany County, Craig County, Bath County, Rockbridge County, Greenbrier County, and the cities of Covington, Buena Vista, and Lexington. The renewed funding will allow MGCC to continue offering vital vocational training with an expanded curriculum tailored to the evolving needs of the workforce.
“We began enrolling new participants on October 1st, and so far, 31 people have started the enrollment process,” said Edward Hrinya, Assistant Director of Rural Programs at TAP. “This grant renewal represents a critical opportunity for our community. With this support, we can continue to empower individuals, including high school students and adult learners, to pursue meaningful careers without the burden of out-of-pocket costs.”
The updated program offerings include Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training, and a new NCCER Core course designed to prepare participants for entry-level positions in manufacturing and construction. The NCCER Core course serves as a gateway to apprenticeship opportunities in skilled trades such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, and HVAC.
MGCC is committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder participation in these programs. The WORC grant will cover any tuition not already funded by other sources, creating a seamless pathway to success for participants. Additionally, the college offers supportive services, including tools and resources essential for training, to help students fully prepare for their careers.
Through the Appalachian CareerForge initiative, Total Action for Progress and MGCC aim to serve a diverse range of participants, including high school students and individuals seeking to rebuild their careers.
Since the initial grant, MGCC has successfully assisted 148 students in completing vocational training, achieving a completion rate nearing 90%. Participants have secured credentials in various fields, significantly contributing to local employment rates.
“Our goal is to provide comprehensive training that meets the needs of our community,” added Matt McGraw, Chief Workforce Officer at MGCC. “We want to create opportunities for everyone, from recent high school graduates to seasoned workers seeking a career change.”
With the new enrollment period underway, MGCC and TAP are optimistic about the continued success of the WORC program. The college encourages community members interested in enhancing their skills or pursuing new careers to reach out and learn more about the available opportunities.
For more information about Appalachian CareerForge and available training programs, please contact Matt McGraw, Chief Workforce Officer, at 540-863-2866 or Edward Hrinya, Assistant Director of Rural Programs, at 540-962-6328.
##
*The total cost of Appalachian CareerForge is $1,499,607. The full $1,499,607 (100%) is funded through a U.S. Department of Labor—Employment and Training Administration grant.