The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a $6.4 million grant to the Western Transportation Institute (WTI) at Montana State University to support workforce development in the railway sector throughout Montana.
Announced on October 29, the grant is part of a larger infrastructure initiative funded by the DOT’s Federal Railroad Administration. This initiative is made possible through a $2.4 billion rail-improvement law that finances 122 projects across 41 states and Washington, D.C.
Kelvin Wang, the executive director of WTI, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, which aims to enhance rail safety and service through upgrades to tracks, rehabilitation of aging bridges, expansion of rail connections at ports, and modernization of locomotive fleets. The DOT described this funding as “the most significant investment in American rail in more than 50 years.”
In addition to physical improvements, the grant will facilitate the development of a skilled workforce to maintain and operate the nation’s rail systems. This includes creating new apprenticeship programs, expanding training opportunities, and fostering partnerships with universities for advanced research.
“The Western Transportation Institute is a national leader in transportation workforce development,” said Alison Harmon, MSU’s vice president for research and economic development. “This grant further solidifies WTI’s leadership position in rural and tribal-focused transportation development.”
The project in Montana will focus on research and activities aimed at building the rail workforce, particularly by increasing engagement among faculty, students, and youth in rail-related topics and skills. Goals include enhancing coordination between industry, labor, economic development, and education sectors, as well as exposing students to rail-focused topics earlier in their careers.
To meet the grant requirements, MSU will collaborate with California State University at Long Beach, the University of Memphis, and Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority to provide the necessary 20 percent non-federal matching funds, bringing total funding for WTI to over $8 million.
“We are very excited to have this opportunity to work with our core project partners to develop nationally relevant workforce development strategies that meet local economic needs,” said Susan Gallagher, WTI’s education and workforce program manager.
Kelvin Wang added, “WTI is fortunate to have nationally recognized staff, faculty, and students. Working with this talented team has been a rewarding experience, enabling us to continue serving the needs of Montana and the nation. We look forward to collaborating with our partners on this exciting project.”
