Weaknecht Announces $140,000 PAsmart Grant for 5th District

August 20, 2026

HARRISBURG – State Rep. Eric Weaknecht (R-Berks) today announced the Berks County Career and Technology Center has been awarded a $140,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) through the PAsmart Advance Grant program.

“This grant will help create more opportunities for students to gain hands-on experiences and develop necessary skills for a successful career in STEM, computer science and more. I’m proud to see investments being made in our students and future workforce,” Weaknecht said.

Advancing Grants offer up to $500,000 to support large, cross sector partnerships that expand access to high quality computer science and STEM career and technical education. The funding helps programs reach more students and adult learners through opportunities like dual enrollment, industry credentials, work based learning, apprenticeships and out of school experiences. These grants also aim to increase the number of certified or highly qualified CS and STEM educators.

Berks County Career and Technology Center is one of many career and technical centers across Pennsylvania receiving funding to enhance educational opportunities and provide students with valuable, real-world experience in their chosen fields.



Representative Eric Weaknecht
5th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Novalea Eckenroad
 717-772-3161 
neckenroad@pahousegop.com