WASHINGTON, D.C. –
U.S.
Senators Benjamin L. Cardin
and
Barbara A. Mikulski and
(both D-Md.) today announced the
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) puts funds in the federal checkbook for job training in renewable and energy efficient building construction in Maryland through the Department of Labor (DOL).

A $4.7 million ARRA grant has been awarded to a consortium of organizations and businesses to implement comprehensive green construction training programs for low-skilled individuals. More than 1,800 participants will receive education, training and support services to prepare them for careers in green construction, solar installation, energy audits, weatherization and lead abatement. Training will also be provided in renewable energy, environmental justice, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and green certification opportunities.

 “Cleaning up our environment, including the Chesapeake Bay, is one of our nation’s top priorities,” said
Senator Cardin, a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee.  “This grant will help train workers for jobs of the future — green jobs that will pay well and provide new opportunities.”

 “This funding is exactly what the
American Recovery & Reinvestment Act is all about – creating and sustaining jobs today and preparing for the jobs of tomorrow,”
Senator Mikulski said. “This grant will give Marylanders the opportunity to get the training they need to find and keep a job, while also helping to make sure that construction in Maryland is environmentally friendly.”

The grant was awarded to STRIVE, New York’s Green Job Corps program, in partnership with the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Employment Development, the Community College of Baltimore County, Aerosol Monitoring & Analysis, Inc. of Hanover, Md., the Baltimore Building & Construction Trades Council, and Streuver Brothers of Baltimore along with organizations and businesses in New York City; Philadelphia; Hartford, Conn.; Flint, Mich.; and Benton Harbor, Mich.