House Appropriations Chairman Seth Grove (R-York) along with State Reps. Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford) and Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming) toured the Pennsylvania College of Technology on April 18, visiting a variety of its instructional areas. Penn College, located in Williamsport, offers a variety of career and technical education, from certificates in welding, to a bachelor’s degree in accounting, and even a master’s degree in nursing. The representatives observed the hands-on education students receive as they prepare to join the workforce in high-need job areas. 

“Penn College is providing students with a 21^st century education our Commonwealth needs,” Grove said.  “During budget hearings, the Appropriations Committee wanted to understand how colleges are preparing students for the jobs we need. The fact Penn College has a 96% graduation placement rate is proof this can be done.”

“We were honored to host Rep. Grove, along with his colleagues Rep. Owlett and Rep. Flick, for a tour of our renowned instructional labs and other key facilities for students on the Pennsylvania College of Technology campus,” said President Michael J. Reed. “We take great pride in our industry-standard facilities and equipment – and our talented faculty and staff team members. Together, they provide the foundation for a hands-on Penn College education, which offers students the best opportunity for long-term success in lucrative STEM-related career fields.”

Owlett, who serves on the board of directors for Penn College, was pleased to organize the tour. “It’s important for our legislative leaders to understand the asset we have in Penn College,” Owlett said. “The training offered at Penn College is nationally recognized, ranking in the top five in four categories by US News and World Report’s best colleges.”

“As a graduate, and now as the state representative for the home of Penn College, I am a proud to share the great work they are doing,” said Flick.  “Growing the economy of the Williamsport area is my top priority, and having a partner like Penn College to achieve that goal is great help.”