Founded over 35 years ago, First Quality is a family-owned company that has grown from a small business in McElhattan, Pennsylvania, into a group of companies that employs more than 5,000 team members. With operations across the U.S. and Canada, First Quality provides high-quality personal care and household products for large retailers and health care organizations, as well as flexible packaging solutions and high-definition printing.
First Quality makes essential products that people use every day, from our premium detergents and packaging solutions to our super-absorbent paper towels and baby diapers. Our people-first approach to innovation sets us apart and helps us create products and programs that make a real difference in people's lives.
At First Quality, we place emphasis on integrity, teamwork and continuous improvement—fostering a culture where employees are empowered to contribute ideas and take pride in their work. First Quality takes a forward-thinking approach to its work environment. The over 5,000 team members who design, innovate and manufacture our products work together in a culture of mutual respect. We invest in our people, our communities and continuously strive to make things better and improve lives for all.
First Quality became involved with Penn College through a shared interest in developing skilled talent for manufacturing, engineering and technology-driven roles. The partnership has grown out of First Quality’s recognition that Penn College offers strong, hands-on programs in fields directly relevant to our operations, such as manufacturing engineering, electrical engineering/mechatronics, etc. By collaborating with Penn College, First Quality can connect with students who possess practical skills, curiosity to learn and technical knowledge to be successful in the industries where we operate.
Our partnership with Penn College helps us recruit motivated, well-trained students who can transition smoothly into First Quality’s engaged workforce.
At First Quality, we see Penn College students and alumni as partners in shaping the future of innovation and excellence. Their direct technical expertise, problem-solving mindset and strong work ethic help fuel our success. Guided by a shared commitment to safety, teamwork and our values, they are an ideal fit for shaping our future.
Penn College’s practical training and real-world experiences prepare you for in-demand careers, supported by strong connections with local employers like First Quality, who highly value its graduates.
"Penn College did an excellent job preparing me for the complexities of Automation and Industrial Engineering. I was able to enter the workforce after completing my associate’s degree and then continue on with my bachelor’s degree while gaining real-world experience. The instructors all had valuable industry experience and helped each student leverage their strengths to excel in their fields. I am proud to be an alumnus and have continued to leverage Penn College as a primary recruiting resource for First Quality’s technical and business needs.”
Earn credits from your apprenticeship experience and apply them to a career-boosting degree.
Hone the technical skills you need to be a part of a rapidly growing career field.
Learn all the ins and outs of electrical and automated systems, training in specialized labs using equipment just the pros.
Choose from a host of interconnected, yet diverse majors, ranging from automation and computer engineering to electronics and robotics.
Spark ideas that improve processes and impact outcomes.
Take the lead in a thriving career field that connects us all.