Mayor Cherelle L. Parker Rebuild Philadelphia Celebrate the First-Ever Tri-Graduation Ceremony for City-Sponsored Skilled Trade Academies

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker presided over the inaugural tri-graduation ceremony for city-sponsored skilled trade academies on May 6, 2025, at the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. The event celebrated graduates who completed programs designed to enhance skills in various trades, a vital area for workforce development. Parker stated that investing in skilled trades is crucial for tackling workforce shortages and promoting local economic growth. Key figures, including Lloyd Salasin-Deane and Liz Trumbull, spoke at the ceremony, underscoring the role of education in community advancement.

This initiative is part of a larger commitment by the city to expand vocational training opportunities and increase job availability. The skilled trades programs have seen a growing interest, reflecting a shift towards practical education in response to labor market demands. Graduates expressed pride in their achievements and readiness to contribute to the workforce. The ceremony highlighted Philadelphia's dedication to fostering a skilled labor pool essential for economic resilience.