Boston, MA (October 20, 2026) — Northern Essex Community College will receive $136,142 as part of a statewide initiative to create workforce training programs for adults looking to enter or re-enter the workforce. Governor Maura Healey today announced a total of $1.5 million in workforce training grants to all 15 Massachusetts community colleges to help hundreds of unemployed and underemployed adults gain the skills they need to pursue good-paying jobs across Massachusetts. Announced during Massachusetts STEM Week, the funding will support training programs in high-demand industries, including health care, advanced manufacturing, information technology, education, and transportation.
At Northern Essex, the funding will be used to support the Certified Nursing Assistant and Pharmacy Technician programs.
“Every Massachusetts student deserves the opportunity to build a career and earn a good living,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why we made community college tuition and fee-free and why we’re continuing to invest in workforce training across the state. These grants will help more than 500 adults gain the skills they need to get good-paying jobs while helping Massachusetts employers find the talented workers they need to grow.”
“Our community colleges are doing incredible work to connect people with opportunities and help local businesses find the workers they need,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “At community colleges across Massachusetts, we’re helping adults build new skills, pursue rewarding careers and create better futures for themselves and their families. This is what STEM Week is all about — making sure people of all ages have the chance to learn, grow and succeed.”
The grants are part of the Training Resources and Internships Network (TRAIN) program. Administered by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, TRAIN supports community colleges in providing industry-specific workforce training and support services for adults entering or returning to the workforce. Programs are designed to meet regional workforce needs, help participants overcome barriers to employment and prepare them for career opportunities in growing industries across Massachusetts.
TRAIN launched in 2016 when it served four community colleges. It has now grown to offer grant opportunities to all 15 community colleges in Massachusetts.
For more information on the TRAIN programs at Northern Essex, visit the webpage for Community Education or call 978-556-3060.
This article was adapted from a press release from the Executive Office of Education.
