The Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. reports nearly 10,000 skilled workers are needed to fill current and anticipated manufacturing job openings in the next five years. Through a state funded grant,
Lehigh Carbon Community College
will help companies identify potential workers to fill the shortage. Beginning this fall, a new cohort will receive a free semester of manufacturing fundamentals including mathematics and fabrication. The curriculum features classroom instruction coupled with plant tours and interaction with hiring managers of 20 local employers. Upon completion of the pilot program, students receive a recognized certificate with the opportunity to continue training. Manufacturing has a $6.9 billion economic impact in the Lehigh Valley.
Paralegals Gain Courtroom Experience at Community College of Philadelphia
The Paralegal Studies Proficiency Certification program offered at the
Community College of Philadelphia
can set in motion a legal career which provides training for a variety of occupations including title examiner, paralegal and legal assistant. CCP's Paralegal Studies program trains students in research and writing, legal documentation, and legal problem-solving. During the first semester, a mentor is paired with students to provide guidance and support. Learning opportunities include guest lectures and field trips; career guidance includes internships, resume assistance and job placement services. Accelerated programs are available for students with a college degree. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, paralegals are an in-demand occupation, with a projected growth of 15% through 2026, and an average wage of $54,080. Eight community colleges in Pennsylvania offer programs (associate degree, certificate or diploma) to meet this emerging need, which is also identified as a High Priority Occupation in 10 Pennsylvania counties.
Bucks Childcare Program Expansion Benefits Students and the Public
Since 1973, the Early Childhood Learning Center at Bucks County Community College
has provided high quality and affordable childcare for students and staff. The program is licensed by the PA Department of Human Services and is a Keystone STARS participant. To meet increased demand, the program will now be accessible to the general public year-round. The preschool and prekindergarten program also provides a learning laboratory for Bucks students enrolled in the early childhood education program, allowing students to gain practical classroom experience and access additional teaching resources. Community colleges across Pennsylvania recognize the importance of quality, affordable childcare and many host programs on their campuses to support their student-parents, staff and community. In addition to Buck
s,
Montgomery County Community College
,
Lehigh Carbon Community College
,
Westmoreland County Community College
,
Butler County Community College
,
Community College of Philadelphia
,
HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College
, and
Northampton Community College
, offer on-site child care options.
Milton Hershey School's first-generation college students entering
Northampton Community College
will benefit from the support systems offered through a memorandum of understanding between the institutions. Low-income students are less likely to complete their higher education pursuits; therefore, the partnership aims to provide comprehensive support services from text reminders, on-campus tours, and academic coaching throughout their entire college experience.
PA Community College Graduates Succeed in Second Careers
Culinary Career for Retired Nurse Ignited by Northampton College Program
After a 30-year nursing career, Elizabeth Bird learned to cook online to help her and her family eat healthier. She became inspired and began the culinary program at
Northampton Community College
where she earned a Culinary Arts degree. She continued to hone her skills and eventually landed her dream job as a chef for a conference center. Northampton Culinary Arts students continue to excel, as eight were recently selected to intern in New Orleans restaurants with Chef Emeril Legasse.
At age 50, Kenneth Rogers enrolled at
Butler County Community College
to learn new skills. Dedication and the experience he gained in the manufacturing pre-apprenticeship program landed him a job and prominent recognition. Mr. Rogers was one of eight people selected by the PA Workforce Development Association and the Department of Labor and Industry to receive the 2018 Governor's Achievement Award.
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