Healey directs $70M to expand vocational training education

April 30, 2026 - 19:23

Governor Maura Healey has announced a $70 million investment aimed at expanding career and technical education programs across Massachusetts. The funding, drawn from the state's surtax on high-income earners, is expected to open doors for as many as 2,500 high school students. These students will gain access to specialized training in fields like advanced manufacturing, health care, and information technology, with the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials before they graduate.

The initiative targets a growing demand for skilled workers in trades and technical professions. School districts will use the money to upgrade equipment, hire instructors, and create new programs that align with local labor market needs. Officials say the goal is to provide students with a direct pathway to well-paying jobs or further education, without the burden of college debt.

Healey emphasized that vocational training is a critical tool for economic mobility. The investment is part of a broader state effort to close the skills gap and ensure that young people, particularly those from underserved communities, have access to high-quality career preparation. The funding will be distributed through a competitive grant process, with priority given to programs that show strong partnerships with local businesses and unions.