NPRC Awarded Second Virtual Reality Learning Tools Grant by West Penn Energy Fund
KANE, Pa. – Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) was selected as the recipient of the Energizing Community Education Project grant funding through the West Penn Energy Fund. The College received $60,000.00 to support the expansion of the zSpace program over the next 12 months in Kane and beyond. The funds will also be used to explore the development of virtual and augmented reality experiences that include energy efficiency modules, using Six&Kane as the pilot location.
Overall, the educational programs and experiences will be conducted at Six & Kane in Kane, Pennsylvania, the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce in Emporium, Pennsylvania, and in partnership with local businesses and school districts throughout the 10-county region NPRC serves.
The Energizing Community Education Project involves comprehensive initiatives aimed at providing learning opportunities for middle to high school students and adults interested in career exploration using the zSpace system. zSpace is a technology company based in San Jose, California that delivers virtual and augmented reality experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), career and technical education (CTE), and career readiness programs from a computer.
The overall project will cover various topics related to sustainable development, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and career awareness in related fields. The programming aims to enhance participants’ knowledge and understanding of sustainable development and renewable energy sources, educate them on the effects of on the environment and potential solutions, while introducing them to renewable energy systems and their importance in energy efficiency.
Additionally, the program will offer adult career awareness and exploration opportunities in fields related to renewable energy and sustainability. This will aid in creating a more skilled workforce that can support the local economy and attract new businesses to the region. By investing in education and training, the program will contribute to the overall economic development and quality of life in West Penn Power and NPRC communities in northwestern and northcentral Pennsylvania.
To continue leading students, NPRC has hired Scott Foster full-time as the z-Space Program Coordinator to continue these efforts and expansions around the region.
NPRC’s Director of Community Development Dannielle Fickenworth shared, “This grant represents an important investment in NPRC’s ability to bring innovative, hands-on STEM and energy education to the communities we serve. Expanding the zSpace program will allow us to strengthen partnerships with schools, employers, and community organizations, while creating meaningful learning experiences connected to regional workforce needs. We are also excited to welcome Scott Foster to our team in a full-time capacity. His leadership, creativity, and experience with the program will be instrumental as we expand its reach and build a sustainable future for zSpace at NPRC.”
Scott Foster added, “It is a privilege to be part of the NPRC, being surrounded by a group of talented individuals who take education as seriously as I do. zSpace is a great tool to help enhance learning at all levels. Being here full time will allow expansion of the program and will allow more students to gain knowledge of the world around them.”
Stay tuned for more information about these community courses and opportunities.
About NPRC: Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) is authorized by the PA Department of Education to award associate degrees and certificates in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. NPRC is an open-admission, two-year institution of higher education. The College’s mission is to put learners first by providing affordable and accessible education and career pathways to sustainable income. NPRC brings affordable education to a 10-county region (Cameron, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, McKean, Potter, Tioga, Venango, and Warren). With flexible scheduling options at numerous instructional locations as well as remote attendance options, attending Northern Pennsylvania Regional College is an excellent option for individuals interested in furthering their education close to home or who need flexibility in their educational journey. With a growing team of high-quality industry-leading instructors directing our classrooms, students are empowered by a welcoming community to change their lives and brighten their futures. NPRC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). https://regionalcollegepa.org.
About West Penn Energy Fund: The West Penn Energy Fund (http://www.westpennenergyfund.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit seeking transformational projects that will support the deployment of sustainable energy technologies in a manner that will improve the economic and environmental health of communities within the West Penn Power service region. Our funding is focused in three broad categories:
- Deployment of sustainable and clean energy technologies;
- Deployment of energy efficiency and conservation technologies; and
- Facilitating economic development, environmental betterment, and public education as they relate to sustainable energy deployment in the WPP service region.
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MEDIA CONTACTS:
Abigail Petrosky, Northern Pennsylvania Regional College, 814-779-2435
Barbara Robuck, West Penn Energy Fund, 814-865-7380