PITTSFIELD, Mass. The Healey-Driscoll Administration has allocated funding to support youth employment in Berkshire County through the YouthWorks program.

 

As part of the more than $22 million awarded statewide, Berkshire Training and Employment Inc. (BTE Inc.) will receive $584,200 to engage 111 young individuals. 

 

"Youthworks provides foundational opportunities for young people to obtain real world experiences, new skills and paychecks as they explore future careers," said Governor Maura Healey. "YouthWorks is part of our administration’s commitment to improving educational and job opportunities for young people to set them on a path to success and meet the needs of our employers."

 

"By providing our future workforce with the skills they need to succeed, we are strengthening the state’s competitiveness, growing our local economies and building a pipeline of future workers," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "We look forward to seeing our young people gain these experiences and join Team Massachusetts."

 

This funding will enable BTE Inc. to introduce youth to various trades, including Automotive and Welding, and provide opportunities to obtain certifications as EMTs, LPNs, and paraprofessionals. 

 

The YouthWorks program aims to provide valuable work experience and soft skills training to young adults in Berkshire County, preparing them for future careers.

 

Since January 2023, more than 13,000 youth and young adults have been placed in a job or received job training through the Youthworks program. Program participants have been placed in jobs in industries such as education, health care, information technology, camp counselors, and arts and communications. Participants also receive vital soft skills training, including leadership, project management, and customer service, and received workforce supports to reduce barriers to employment, including transportation.