Vella Continues Efforts to Invest in Local Workers, Secures Millions for Aviation Mechanics Training Program

ROCKFORD, Ill. – As part of his efforts to promote economic development in the Rockford area, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, joined Gov. Pritzker and other local leaders to announce a $2.6 million grant to The Workforce Connection to expand workforce development training programs for aviation mechanics.

“With the expansion of the Rockford Airport and the many opportunities that come from that, it is critical that we are preparing our local workforce to have the training needed to take advantage of the many new jobs that will be available in the coming years,” said Vella. “Having a skilled, well-trained workforce will not only ensure that we are able to fill new jobs with local workers, but also make the Rockford area more attractive for businesses to bring future jobs to. This grant is an important piece of getting our local economy back on track.”

Due to the multi-year expansion plan of the Rockford Airport, the demand for aviation mechanics is expected to increase over the coming years. To ensure that Rockford-area workers are qualified for these jobs, Vella helped secure the $2.6 million grant that will be used to help train aviation workers and increase apprenticeship opportunities.