Press Releases

Wilkes-Barre, PA – U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) today announced the release of $100,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to the Greater Wilkes-Barre Industrial Fund, also known as Wilkes-Barre Connect, for the Designing the Future Workforce for Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA Works) project.

In addition to ARC funds, local sources will provide $100,000, bringing the total project funding to $200,000. With this investment, Wilkes-Barre Connect will enhance the quality of the workforce by addressing specific skills gaps, increasing opportunities for employees to find gainful employment and providing businesses with the opportunity to expand because of the availability of additional qualified workers.

“Everyone deserves the dignity of a good-paying job,” said Rep. Cartwright. “During this time of crisis, federal funding that helps prepare people for new jobs and enables them to earn a living and support their families will help restore economic opportunity in our region.”

“NEPA Works provides Wilkes-Barre Connect with the opportunity to launch two workforce pilot programs in Luzerne County, focused on enhancing connectivity between job seekers and job providers and providing upskill and career pathway opportunities within the computer programming industry,” said Joseph A. Boylan, Executive Director of Wilkes-Barre Connect. “The project will aid in our recovery efforts to strengthen our workforce and assist as individuals reenter the workforce in Northeast PA. We thank Congressman Cartwright for his support and leadership in securing resources during our region's greatest time of need.”

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state and local government. Established by an act of Congress in 1965, ARC is composed of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chair, who is appointed by the president. Local participation is provided through multi-county local development districts.