February Marks National Career and Technical Education Month
February is National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to celebrate the impact of hands-on learning and the vital role CTE graduates play in workforce development. As Pennsylvania joins the nationwide initiative to enhance career and technical education, Schuylkill Technology Center (STC) is leading the way with new program expansions.
Expanding Career Pathways at Schuylkill Technology Center
Schuylkill Technology Center entered the new year with the launch of two new career and technical programs, reinforcing the broader state and local efforts to expand CTE opportunities.
Governor Josh Shapiro's 2025 Budget Address emphasized the need to "grow career and technical education" through innovative solutions that increase student access to these programs. This initiative was further highlighted by Judd Pittman, Director of the PA Bureau of Career and Technical Education, during a recent PACTA Symposium, underscoring the importance of expanding CTE programs across the state.
In response to this growing demand, STC North Campus has introduced its inaugural cohort of high school students into the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Program. This rigorous and competitive program equips students with the skills needed to install and repair HVAC systems. Once fully established, the program will provide specialized training to 40 high school students annually. Enrolled students will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials, including the EPA 608 and OSHA 10 Certifications, ensuring they are workforce-ready upon completion.
Additionally, STC has expanded its offerings at the South Annex Building with the introduction of the Food Service Occupation Program. This program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the food service industry through hands-on training and individualized support. Students completing the program will earn the ServSafe Certification, a key credential in the hospitality and culinary sectors.
Commitment to Workforce Development and Adult Education
Schuylkill Technology Center continues to serve as a premier institution for career and technical education. With 23 programs of study across two campuses, STC is supporting 842 high school students for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additionally, STC provides five adult education programs, catering to approximately 200 adult learners annually.
As part of its commitment to expanding opportunities for adult learners, STC North Campus will launch an evening cohort for Practical Nursing in March 2025. This program aims to provide working adults with a flexible pathway to earn a nursing degree and enter the high-demand healthcare field.
A Vision for the Future of Career and Technical Education
“Career and Technical Education (CTE) has undergone a transformation in recent years that truly helps students see the relevance of what they are learning with practical applications of knowledge and skills,” said Shannon Brennan, Director of Schuylkill Technology Center. Brennan emphasized that modern CTE programs go beyond teaching concepts and tasks—they equip students with an understanding of why they are learning specific skills and how these skills translate to real-world applications.
STC is currently accepting applications for both high school and adult programs. Interested individuals can find more information by visiting www.stcenters.org or www.adult.stcenters.org.