STCC receives $30,000 state grant to explore EV technician training

Electric vehicles were brought to STCC during an October event showcasing career opportunities in the electrification sector.

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the MassCEC Equity Workforce Fund to explore demand for incumbent Electric Vehicle (EV) technician training.

STCC would work in partnership with the Entrepreneurial and Business Collaborative LLC (E&BC), a unique regional organization, on the development project.

The grant supports the state's commitment to preparing the workforce for the expanding clean energy sector and its focus on meeting the growing demand for EV technicians. Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Undersecretary Katherine Antos and Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) CEO Dr. Emily Reichert announced over $16 million in grant awards, including the funding for STCC, alongside other state and local officials on Sept. 27.

As the state of Massachusetts accelerates its transition to clean energy and the adoption of electric vehicles, the need for a skilled workforce to service and maintain these vehicles is critical, said Gladys Franco, Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development. The grant will allow STCC and E&BC to research employer demand and the potential need for curriculum design that would provide hands-on, short-term training and possible industry certification pathways for technicians working on this expanding class of vehicle.

"We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for recognizing the importance of investing in our workforce and ensuring that our students have the skills they need to succeed in this emerging industry," Franco said. "This funding will enable us to collaborate with industry leaders to explore the skills and training needed to support high-demand, well-paying jobs in the electric vehicle sector."

This funding will enable us to collaborate with industry leaders to explore the skills and training needed to support high-demand, well-paying jobs in the electric vehicle sector. Gladys Franco, Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development

STCC, the only technical community college in the state, is well-positioned to lead the way in supporting innovative career pathways, including this evolution in the automotive industry.

The Entrepreneurial and Business Collaborative LLC, a Springfield-based strategic partner in this initiative, will bring valuable industry insight, relationships with diverse communities, and project expertise that supports the needs of local businesses and employers.

Together, STCC and E&BC will consider if and how accessible training options for incumbent workers can support workforce development in a key sector.

"We are excited to partner with STCC on this pivotal initiative,” said Ron Molina-Brantley, CEO of Entrepreneurial and Business Collaborative LLC. "Electric vehicles are not just the future of transportation—they represent a transformative shift towards sustainability. By investing in technician training, we are building the skilled workforce necessary to support this critical transition and drive a greener, more sustainable future."

If you have interest or questions in our current or future programs, please complete our Workforce Development Program Inquiry Form, and one of our Recruitment and Retention Specialists will contact you promptly.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu