Van Hollen, Cardin, Trone Announce $320,000 to Advance Clean Energy, Information Technology and Biotech Training at Frostburg State University

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced $100,000 in federal funding for Frostburg State University for the Western Maryland Advanced Technology Center (ATC). Along with $220,000 in local matching funds, these federal resources will support workforce and economic development in Western Maryland. 

“Investment in workforce training and development is critical to building our economy back better. This funding will enhance the opportunities for Maryland’s workers at Frostburg, supporting local businesses and creating more jobs throughout Western Maryland and our state. I will continue to fight for resources that strengthen our local economies and boost innovation,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“As we are on the road to recovery from the economic crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic, this new round of federal funding will help launch four new businesses centers that will in turn accelerate job growth, and strengthen our economy” said Senator Cardin. “I am proud of Frostburg University, in partnership with the ATC, for taking the lead on building these ladders of opportunity for Western Maryland.”

“Investing in projects that spur innovation and create jobs is exactly how we’re going to help Western Maryland build back from the COVID pandemic,” said Congressman Trone. “I look forward to seeing how the partnership between Frostburg State University and the Western Maryland Advanced Technology Center will change our community for the better.”

“This award by the ARC to help develop Phase I of the Western Maryland Advance Technology Center at FSU’s Innovation Park shows how much can be accomplished when all levels of government and both public and private organizations work together. Frostburg State University is grateful to each for the initial success their efforts have brought forth,” said Al Delia, Vice President for Regional Development and Engagement, Frostburg State University.       

Funding comes from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and will go towards purchasing workforce training equipment for the new public-private partnership businesses that will be located in the ATC. The business sectors include clean and renewable energy, information technology and biotech laboratory research, creating dozens of jobs, apprentices and internship positions in Maryland.

The ARC is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local governments. Established by Congress in 1965, ARC is comprised of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chair, who is appointed by the President. Local participation is provided through multi-county local development districts.