Pictured above left to right: Jennifer Apicella, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network | Gayle Manchin, Federal Cochair, Appalachian Regional Commission | Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission

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Pittsburgh, PA – October 17, 2024 – The Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) has received a $750,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to launch the Robotics Leadership Academy (RLA). This initiative will address critical workforce challenges in the rapidly growing robotics and autonomy sector. With matching funds from regional contributors, the total funding for the program amounts to $1.5 million. This funding will support a three-year initiative to equip 220 workers with the skills necessary to drive innovation and commercialization within the region's robotics cluster, strengthening Pittsburgh’s position as a global leader in advanced technologies.

The Appalachian Regional Commission awarded $68.2 million to 65 projects through its Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative. POWER directs federal resources to economic diversification and revitalization projects in Appalachian communities affected by the downturn of the coal industry.

PRN’s Robotics Leadership Academy will collaborate with key regional partners, including Partner4Work, InnovatePGH, The Robotics Factory, Penn State University and others to deliver two tailored training tracks for both technical professionals and students. The program will target diverse groups across the Appalachian region, with an emphasis on creating equitable pathways into high-demand, high-wage positions in the robotics industry.

“We are incredibly grateful for the ARC’s support,” said Jennifer Apicella, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network. “This funding allows us to continue expanding Pittsburgh’s robotics business ecosystem by fostering a more skilled workforce capable of transforming both local and global markets. The Robotics Leadership Academy will be instrumental in building the talent pipelines necessary to sustain our region’s competitive edge while accelerating the commercial growth of these companies.”

Team members from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, the region’s federally designated Local Development District (LDD), provided technical assistance and guidance throughout PRN’s grant writing process.

 “Our organization’s mission is to keep the region connected by planning for its future, and one of the ways we do that is by working to secure federal funding for area organizations like PRN,” said Rich Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Co-Chair Manchin’s continued support of our region demonstrates the valued partnership that we have with the ARC team. We are committed to fostering economic development through innovative methods, and PRN’s Leadership Academy will do just that by directly working to equip workers with the skills they need to be employed in and around the region’s growing robotics sector. By providing support and working together, we are helping to propel Southwestern Pennsylvania forward.” 

The RLA’s curriculum will explore the cross-section between leadership and technical skills, bridging the gap between technology development and product commercialization. It will also focus on creating equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups in the technology workforce.

Jenny Sharpe, PRN’s Director of Workforce Development, shared, “This grant enables us to not only grow the robotics workforce but also ensure that opportunities are accessible to communities in our region. We’re committed to expanding access to education and training, particularly for those historically underrepresented in the tech sector.”

The partnership with InnovatePGH and Partner4Work is crucial to the initiative’s success. Sean Luther, Executive Director of InnovatePGH, emphasized the transformative impact of this collaboration, stating, “The RLA represents a pivotal moment for Pittsburgh’s robotics cluster. By aligning education, industry, and community efforts, Pittsburgh is intentionally supporting a new generation of robotics leaders and building a workforce equipped for the future. InnovatePGH is excited to support this effort and see how it strengthens our city’s economic development.”

Additionally, Rob Cherry, CEO of Partner4Work, highlighted the workforce’s role in the region’s growth: “With the support of ARC, PRN’s efforts will give job seekers in Appalachia the skills needed to participate in the global robotics economy. Together, we are shaping a more equitable and prosperous future for our workforce and businesses.”

This award presents a chance to further expand the region's capabilities in alignment with the Build Back Better initiative, coordinated by the New Economy Collaborative, which received a $62.7M investment from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

The Robotics Leadership Academy is scheduled to begin in late 2024, with training sessions held quarterly through to 2027. The initiative is expected to enhance the skills of 220 workers and serve as a model for workforce development across the country.

About the Pittsburgh Robotics Network
The Pittsburgh Robotics Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to building a world-leading robotics ecosystem in Pittsburgh. By connecting businesses, investors, and academia, The Pittsburgh Robotics Network works to accelerate the commercial growth and impact of robotics in the region and beyond.

Contact Information:

Maddi Love, Director of Communications

Pittsburgh Robotics Network

maddi@robopgh.org

+1 (412) 764-7546