LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — "As Pennsylvanians, we're taught a hard work ethic that comes with hard coal country. And Local 44 helped me harness that," said Governor Josh Shapiro.
It's union halls like SMART Sheet Metal Workers Local 44 near Wilkes-Barre that build our communities and allow homegrown tin knockers like AJ Bonk to achieve the American dream.
"Because of Local 44, my wife and I were able to buy our first home. We've had access to great healthcare, education and a sustainable avenue to a secure retirement. This union provides me with stability and opportunity," said AJ Bonk, Smart Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union 44.
It's stories like Bonks that continue to inspire Governor Josh Shapiro.
In his past two state budgets, the governor provided an additional $61 million for career and technical education, guiding kids toward the trades early.
So far, the Shapiro Administration says it's approved more than 50 new apprenticeship programs and more than 10,000 new apprentices enrolled since he took office.
"The opportunities it gives to people like Bonk, to not only have an incredible craft that you're proud of but to buy that home, put food on the table and see a future right here in Pennsylvania because of the union way of life. We're really proud of you, man," said Gov. Shapiro.
It's that money that allows unions, like Local 44, to expand and upgrade their training centers.
These steps push toward breaking the stigma of college.
"I'm excited to grow this union from the bottom up, and I'm excited to invest in the young men and women from our area that are the future of this local," said Bob Rushkowski, SMART Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union 44 Training Coordinator.
Rebuilding the heart of northeastern and central Pennsylvania, our union workers.