Training program will connect jobseekers with high-quality jobs
WILMINGTON – In partnership with Amtrak, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), is being awarded $11 million to fund a new “Railroading 101” program. The training course is funded by a 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 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.”
“It’s great to see Amtrak and DelDOT receive a grant award for their work to support a future of well-paying rail jobs here in Delaware,” said U.S. Senator Tom Carper, Chair of the Environment and Public Works Committee in the U.S. Senate. “I like to say that the government doesn’t create jobs, but we can support a nurturing environment for job creation. With this grant from the Department of Labor, we will support an industry that takes cars and trucks off the road and ensure it maintains a talented workforce. That’s a win-win!”
“Generations of Delawareans have built meaningful careers working on our nation’s railroads, and as we invest in our transportation systems it is critical that we also invest in our railroad workers,” said U.S. Senator Chris Coons from Delaware. “This grant to Amtrak and DelDOT will help Delawareans develop the skills and expertise that give them access to good-paying rail jobs and contribute to safe and reliable passenger railroad service throughout our country.”
“As a former Secretary of Labor for Delaware and the co-founder of the bipartisan Future of Work Caucus in Congress, investing in our workforce has always been at the forefront of my work, especially as we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware. “I’m thrilled about today’s $11 million grant announcement for Amtrak and DelDOT to develop ‘Railroading 101,’ a pre-employment training program to prepare participants for future jobs in the railroad industry. I commend Amtrak and DelDOT on this exciting partnership that will give Delawareans the opportunity to gain employment in an industry so vital to the infrastructure and economy here in Delaware and across the country.”
More than 2,500 new employees joined Amtrak this year. For recent graduates to experienced professionals, there are many career opportunities at Amtrak. Amtrak offers well-paid, rewarding jobs, along with hiring bonuses and relocation packages for select critical roles.
Amtrak employees can achieve career growth and satisfaction through a wide range of opportunities. Additionally, Amtrak encourages a positive work environment, where diversity is embraced, and employees can maintain a healthy work-life balance to reach their full potential.
The total cost of the “Railroading 101” program is $11,025,885 with $11,025,885 (100%) funded by the U.S. Department of Labor.
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