Bump announces workforce competitiveness grants

Suzanne M. Bump, the Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, announced several grants that aim to help older workers, low-wage workers, disabled citizens, and unemployed residents.

Among grants awarded was a $499,991 grant to the Building & Construction Trades Council, which focuses on the construction sector with an emphasis on apprenticeship preparedness for a variety of trades, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development said in a press release.

A grant of $475,000 was also awarded to the Utility Workers Union of America Local No. 369, the executive office said.

Referring to older workers, low-wage workers, low-income individuals, disabled citizens, vulnerable youth, and the unemployed, Bump said in a statement, “Our goal is to help these populations gain access to employment, education, and the skills necessary to move forward along a career path leading to economic self-sufficiency."
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)