The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) will partner with Amtrak to offer a new “Railroading 101” program, which is being funded by an $11 million U.S. Department of Labor grant.
“This grant is an example of the commitment of the Department of Labor to empower workers and job seekers,” said Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner. “Amtrak will use these resources as we work with our Delaware partners to better equip workers for railroad careers and grow our service.”
Delaware Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski added, “DelDOT and Amtrak continue to work collaboratively on projects such as the new Claymont Train Station that will open in late 2023, and this grant allows Amtrak to continue to invest in the workforce and ensure Delawareans have the skills needed to fill critical roles locally throughout their organization in the years ahead.”
Amtrak and DelDOT explain the program will help workers develop various railroad-related skills to pursue well-paid, meaningful jobs that contribute to the success of America’s infrastructure and transportation sectors in the future.
“Railroading 101” will:
- Improve job opportunities in Delaware
- Build a more diverse railroad workforce
- Enrich the lives of its participants by providing the tools needed for successful railroad careers
“The pandemic caused extraordinary disruption in our economy and disproportionately harmed people in disadvantaged communities,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “The Biden-Harris administration’s actions fueled a strong recovery and historic economic growth. As we enter new phases in the recovery, we must ensure all communities have the support they need to thrive.”
“Workforce programs like this one will mean more good-paying jobs, and they'll prove essential as we continue implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law," said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. "The Federal Railroad Administration applauds the opportunity the Department of Labor provided for Delaware DOT and Amtrak, and we look forward to investing more federal funds in projects and programs that support rail in America."
“One of the goals of SMART Mechanical Department is to help serve and better the communities we live and work in,” said John McCloskey, General Chairperson, Sheet Metal Air Rail Transportation Union. “This made supporting the grassroots ‘Railroading 101’ program funded through a federal grant to the state of Delaware a no-brainer.”
