Johnson College Receives ARC Grant

NEPA presented Johnson College with a $76,974 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant. NEPA, in coordination with Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), Office of Appalachian Development, assisted Johnson College in preparation of the grant and recommended the project to ARC for approval. The goal of this project is to update the technical training systems that Johnson College students utilize in obtaining an educational experience that reflects the latest developments in materials, tools, machinery, equipment, methods and techniques; ultimately allowing for quicker response to industry labor needs.

The $76,974 grant, combined with $76,974 in matching funds from Johnson College, will be used to purchase 12 different “Training Systems” which guarantee the students practical experience with high-technology tools and resources that employers expect them to show proficient use of during their first professional positions in industry. Johnson College was ranked #10 on Forbes “Top 25 Two-Year Trade Schools: Colleges That Can Solve The Skills Gap.” This grant opportunity will help ensure Johnson College students have the opportunity to master the skills needed to enter high priority occupations in the ARC region in a way that meets the most current industry standards and provides a family sustaining wage.

Photo Caption: George Kelly, Lackawanna County; Katie Leonard, Johnson College; Kurt Bauman, NEPA Alliance; Congressman Matt Cartwright; Paul Macknosky, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED); State Representative Marty Flynn; Jeffrey Box, NEPA Alliance; Tracey Pratt, Johnson College and Larry West, Senator John Blake’s Office.