CHATTANOOGA — Bloomberg Philanthropies awarded Chattanooga-Hamilton County $9 million to expand a high school apprenticeship program in skilled trades. Chattanooga 2.0, Hamilton County Schools, Associated General Contractors of East Tennessee, IBEW Local 175, and UA Local 43 Steamfitters and Pipefitters announced their participation in the initiative.

The national initiative includes nine locations and allocates $90 million for student preparation in registered apprenticeships. The local program will serve approximately 600 high school students annually.

Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp stated, "By bringing together schools, employers, labor organizations, and local government, we're helping more young people connect directly with high-demand careers while strengthening the workforce that powers our economy. We're proud for Hamilton County to be among the communities leading the way in expanding these opportunities." The Chattanooga region has an estimated demand for more than 1,160 skilled trades jobs in the coming year in construction, HVAC, welding, and line working. Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly said the funding supports the city's vision.

Hamilton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson stated, "Expanding skilled trades pathways is critical to ensuring each and every student has intentional opportunities to build skills, industry connections, and confidence that connect education to thriving-wage careers after graduation. Bloomberg Philanthropies' investment reflects the momentum in Hamilton County, signaling what is possible when education, industry, and community align around student success." The curriculum includes safety training and work-based learning opportunities.

No independent assessment of Bloomberg Philanthropies’s claims was available.