HARRISBURG — Sen. Michele Brooks (R-50) announced today $200,000 in state funding to support workforce development programs at the Hope Center for Arts and Technology (HopeCAT) in Sharon.
The funding will help HopeCAT maintain and expand career training programs designed to prepare students for in-demand jobs while strengthening the region’s workforce.
“By combining hands-on vocational training in fields like healthcare and the trades, along with valuable youth mentorship, HopeCAT does more than just teach technical skills — they help create sustainable career paths right here in our community,” said Brooks. “Investing in local education pipelines empowers the workforce and fills critical staffing needs for our employers, while helping to sustain and create new jobs. This funding will help ensure Mercer and surrounding counties remain a vibrant place to live and work.”
HopeCAT is a nonprofit organization focused on improving lives and strengthening the community through career training, youth mentorship and the arts. The organization provides hands-on education and career preparation for individuals seeking opportunities in high-demand fields, while also offering programs that encourage creativity and community engagement.
“On behalf of HopeCAT’s Board of Directors, we are deeply grateful to Sen. Michele Brooks for her advocacy and to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development for this $200,000 investment in our workforce training programs, including construction trades, phlebotomy, medical assistant and EMT. This will allow us to grow and maintain our current programs and will also allow us to develop new programs in high-demand fields, giving students the chance to change the course of their lives through a stable, in-demand career,” said Lorie Hines, executive director, HopeCAT. “This support represents far more than skills training — it represents a genuine opportunity to provide transformation and to provide capable labor in our community. We are honored by this investment and remain committed to using it in service of our community.”
HopeCAT’s programs are designed to connect students with practical, career-focused training that can lead to employment in fields experiencing workforce shortages. By providing accessible training opportunities close to home, the organization helps area residents build skills while helping local businesses and industries develop a stronger pipeline of qualified workers.
The funding was provided through Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, which administers a variety of grant programs designed to strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy, support communities, encourage innovation and develop the state’s workforce.