News

Thousands of students and young adults explored careers in the skilled trades at this year’s Build On event, gaining hands-on exposure to construction careers and the people who make them possible.

Partner4Work was recently recognized by Allegheny County Council for its work to strengthen the region’s construction workforce and expand access to careers in the skilled trades.

Partner4Work remembers longtime Board Member Nancy Washington and honors her years of service, leadership, and commitment to the community.

Partner4Work joined partners at Acrisure Stadium for two events focused on strengthening youth workforce development and creating clearer pathways to opportunity.

Early work experiences help young people build skills and discover career possibilities. Yet teen employment in Allegheny County has fallen 36% since 2000, even as the region’s workforce ages. View the three new data briefs to explore these trends.

Partner4Work and Pittsburgh Water recently wrapped up the final cohort of the Pittsburgh Water Pre-Apprenticeship Bridge to Careers Program, an initiative designed to give local pre-apprentices firsthand exposure to careers in construction, the skilled trades, and the water utility industry.

Jennifer Martin Named Chief Business Engagement Officer of Partner4Work

Catalyze Pittsburgh launches $1.5 million Catalyze Pittsburgh Challenge to support innovative, career-connected learning initiatives in emerging industries and occupations for young people across six Southwestern PA counties.

Sometimes the biggest workforce opportunity isn't solving one company's challenge, it's recognizing the same challenge across an entire industry. 

Today's Students Are Tomorrow's Workforce: For many businesses, building a strong workforce isn't just about filling today's open positions—it's about preparing for tomorrow's talent needs. Partner4Work helps employers connect with young people earlier, creating opportunities to introduce students to careers, industries, and workplaces before they enter the labor market.

Partner4Work announced a new partnership with The Barnes Global Advisors (TBGA) to launch the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnership (RAMP), an initiative aimed at strengthening the advanced manufacturing talent pipeline across the Pittsburgh region. RAMP will bring together employers, educators, and community stakeholders to develop scalable workforce strategies aligned with the needs of the industry while engaging approximately 10 advanced manufacturing companies to help co-design innovative workforce development solutions. Supported by the Richard King Mellon Foundation, the initiative combines Partner4Work’s expertise in workforce development with TBGA’s national leadership in advanced manufacturing and regional industry initiatives, including Neighborhood 91 and multiple Department of Defense-supported manufacturing programs.

Businesses interested in learning more can reach out to Mayada Christiansen: mchristiansen@partner4work.org

Source: Partner4Work Announces Strategic Manufacturing Partnership with The Barnes Global Advisors

More than 1,000 middle and high school students from over 50 schools across nine southwestern Pennsylvania counties came together last week at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center for the second annual SWPA Healthcare Expo: The Pulse on Career Pathways. 

Partner4Work proudly celebrated the achievements of the latest Introduction to the Construction Trades cohort at the Pittsburgh Gateways Commencement Ceremony. As participants in Build the Beat—a collaborative pre-apprenticeship program developed with Live Nation, PJ Dick, and Pittsburgh Gateways Corporation—graduates received hands-on training, earned industry certifications, and gained pathways to high-demand careers. Supported through our 4Construction initiative, this program helps connect individuals to family-sustaining jobs while strengthening Pittsburgh’s construction workforce. Congratulations to the graduates and thank you to all who brought this vision to life!

Partner4Work proudly celebrates Maurice Walker, Construction Liaison, on being named one of the New Pittsburgh Courier’s 2025 Men of Excellence. Maurice is recognized for his work building equitable access to careers in the trades and supporting Pittsburgh’s future workforce. We also congratulate board member Will Allen for his outstanding leadership in business and community impact. This recognition highlights the values and vision driving Partner4Work’s mission forward. Congratulations to both honorees and all of this year’s awardees!

Ryanna and Alonna faced serious challenges this year, but thanks to the support of the Human Services Center Mon Valley’s Emerging Leaders Program—and their own determination—they’re heading to college with a clear plan. The program helped them navigate college applications, explore career paths, and stay focused during tough times. As Ryanna shared, “Without ELP, I would have been completely lost.” Their success reflects the power of guidance, persistence, and community in helping youth build strong futures.

At Partner4Work, we proudly support the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh, where determination meets opportunity. Kedeja’s journey is one of transformation—gaining confidence, earning a driver’s license, and completing training with the support of TIP’s dedicated staff. This story highlights the impact of community, encouragement, and access to tools that empower individuals to build brighter futures through skilled trades.

Congratulations to the latest graduates of the Breaking the Chains of Poverty (BTCP) pre-apprenticeship program through the A. Philip Randolph Institute of Pittsburgh.

Discover how Partner4Work’s youth programs, funded by TANF, are helping Pittsburgh students like Raz succeed. From FAFSA completion to college scholarships, see how our partners are shaping bright futures.

From behind-the-scenes animal care to hands-on training, Suhaylah has taken flight through the Learn & Earn program at the National Aviary!