Valerie Secker
Valerie Secker serves as a Managing Director of Grants and Federal Affairs in the non-profit and public agencies practice. Working closely with her clients, she connects them with federal and foundation funding opportunities that match their organizational goals and mission.
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry has released the State-funded Schools-to-Work Program grant to build or expand registered pre-apprenticeship programs for high school students.
With approximately $3.8 million available, the Schools-to-Work Program Round 6 (STW6) is designed to strengthen partnerships between schools, employers, and workforce organizations to create sustainable career pathways for students.
The STW6 grant supports projects that establish or enhance workforce development partnerships through pre-apprenticeship programs registered with Pennsylvania’s Apprenticeship and Training Office.
STW6 projects must target Pennsylvania’s in-demand industries.
Pennsylvania’s in-demand industries include:
- Agriculture
- Energy
- Life Sciences
- Manufacturing
- Robotics and Technology
- Education
- Healthcare
- Skilled Trades (Construction, Electrician, HVAC, Steamfitting, Fiber Optics/Telecommunications)
Who can apply for the PA Schools-to-Work Grant?
Eligible STW6 applicants are new or existing Registered Pre-Apprenticeship Program sponsors and potential Registered Apprenticeship & Pre-Apprenticeship Sponsors planning to register a new program. Applicants may include schools, employers, industry associations, workforce development organizations, and community-based organizations.
- Total Available Funding: $3,800,000
- Maximum Award: $250,000
- Number of Awards: Approximately 15
- Application Deadline: December 22, 2025
Navigate Complex Funding Opportunities with McAllister & Quinn.
McAllister & Quinn is a premier government relations and grant consulting firm, based in Washington, D.C., serving clients nationwide. We’ve helped our clients secure more than $17 billion in competitive grant funding and over $1 billion in congressionally directed spending. Our team can help you navigate the complexities of federal, state, and foundation funding and strengthen your internal capacity.
Let’s work together to advance your mission and create lasting impact.