RWU, Federal and Local Leaders Announce $350K Federal Investment in East Providence Workforce Training Program

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Roger Williams University joined R.I. Congressman David N. Cicilline and East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva to announce $350,000 in federal funding for the East Providence Workforce Training Program.  

Secured through the targeted funding known as Community Project Funding in the government spending bill for Fiscal Year 2022, this funding will support workforce and professional development opportunities for approximately 530 low-to-moderate-income East Providence adults. Program participants will enroll in certification coursework through RWU, which is geared toward improving employment opportunities by cultivating industry-specific, computer, and leadership skills. The program will offer coursework in Microsoft Office, social media marketing, business office technology, program management, and medical office specialist training. 
  
“While Rhode Island has regained nearly 90% of the jobs lost during the pandemic shutdowns, supply chain challenges and an increasingly online economy have made it difficult for too many Rhode Islanders to find good-paying jobs,” Cicilline said. “The free coursework and certifications offered through the East Providence Workforce Training Program will help impacted workers upskill, helping them to find and qualify for better jobs and higher earnings for themselves and their families.” 
  
“We would like to thank Congressman David Cicilline for his continued support and allocating the funds to support this program,” DaSilva said. “This is an initiative that will benefit our residents to better position them in the workplace." 
  
“Roger Williams University is proud to be part of this innovative partnership providing upskilling and reskilling opportunities to build a stronger and highly skilled workforce for the city and citizens of East Providence. We worked closely with the city of East Providence to develop customized and personalized educational pathways that support the needs of the community and help East Providence residents start a new profession or advance their careers,” said RWU President Ioannis Miaoulis. 
  
“University College at RWU is committed to developing a talented workforce that contributes to more vibrant, and successful communities and the economy for Rhode Island. This partnership with the city of East Providence is a great example of the way Roger Williams works with municipalities and the business community to identify skills gaps and design tailored educational programs that meet industry needs and support our local communities,” said RWU Dean Gena Bianco.  

Cicilline secured this funding in the omnibus spending bill for Fiscal Year 2022. This program was one of 10 community project funding requests that he made to the Appropriations Committee.