WORCESTER—Worcester Technical High School is set to receive a $3.75 million state grant aimed at strengthening its plumbing and HVAC programs, part of a broader push to address a growing shortage of skilled trades workers in Central Massachusetts.
The funding, announced as part of a $70 million statewide investment in career technical education, will be used to modernize facilities, expand training capacity and better align coursework with evolving industry demands, according to Worcester Public Schools.
For Worcester Tech, the investment is expected to support upgrades to lab spaces and equipment, including the installation of high-efficiency systems and digital control technology—changes school leaders say are necessary to keep pace with a rapidly shifting workforce.
“The Worcester Public Schools is grateful for this significant investment by the state in our programs at Worcester Technical High School,” Superintendent Brian Allen said in a statement. “This grant allows Worcester Tech to enhance its cutting-edge learning opportunities in these skilled trades that will benefit our students.”
The grant also reflects a larger trend across the state, where demand for career technical education has surged alongside a tightening labor market in trades such as plumbing and HVAC. Worcester officials said their application highlighted a documented regional shortage of licensed professionals, making expansion of training programs a priority.
Gov. Maura Healey framed the funding as part of an effort to increase access to hands-on education and create clearer pathways into stable, in-demand careers.
“Across Massachusetts, we’re hearing from students and families who want access to career technical education,” Healey said in the announcement. “That’s why we’re making a $70 million investment to expand programs, create new seats and modernize training facilities so more students can get the skills they need and step into strong, in-demand careers.”
At Worcester Tech, the upgrades are expected to extend beyond traditional high school programming. Officials said the expanded capacity will also benefit students in the school’s Innovation Career Pathways program, as well as adults enrolled in evening courses.
Principal Drew Weymouth said the funding will allow the school to keep its programs current as industry standards evolve.
“It’s important for our facilities and curriculums to continuously evolve so that future graduates have the necessary skills to meet the rapidly changing needs of industries,” Weymouth said in the statement.
School leaders emphasized that the investment is not only about improving classrooms, but about preparing students for careers that are increasingly tied to energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices.
“This grant represents a transformative investment in our students and our region’s future,” said Dr. Patricia Suomala, director of career technical education at Worcester Technical High School, in the announcement. “By modernizing our shop areas and training our students on cutting edge systems, we are not only addressing workforce shortages but preparing the next generation of students with the skills necessary to succeed.”
The Worcester award is one of 28 grants issued statewide through the capital program, which is focused on expanding access to technical education and strengthening connections between schools and employers.
