WASHINGTON, DC (FOX19) -
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced Friday that the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority is one of 17
organizations in 12 states selected to receive funds through the Federal
Transit Administration's Innovative Transit Workforce Grants
Program.
A total of $7 million in grants was awarded nationwide.
"A well-educated workforce is vital to ensuring that our
nation's economy continues to grow and that the transportation industry has
qualified individuals to keep our transit systems competitive," said Secretary
LaHood. "This program provides training that reflects the Obama
Administration's commitment to helping Americans find good jobs."
The program, now in its second year, helps local public
transit agencies and institutions of higher education to conduct training,
assistance, and outreach aimed at bringing more women, minorities, and
minority-owned businesses into the transportation field and creating new
opportunities for employment.
The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority will receive
$206,973 to develop a transit maintenance workforce training program in Greater
Cincinnati to provide technical training in the rapidly changing area of hybrid
engine technology, as well as continuing education for current members of its
transit workforce.
FTA's FY2012 workforce grants program encourages recipients
to partner with Indian tribes and other local nonprofit entities to focus
training and outreach efforts in underserved communities; support the training
needs of operational and maintenance workers, especially in new and emerging
technology areas; and showcase innovative methods that encourage young people
to pursue careers in public transportation.
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