Congressmen convene on campus

U.S. representatives toured Penn College’s workforce-bolstering facilities on Wednesday while on campus to attend an energy panel hosted by Coterra Energy. 

Rep. Dan Meuser, along with a number of staff and industry representatives, toured the Larry A. Ward Machining Technologies Center, the Lycoming Engines Metal Trades Center and the heating, ventilation & air conditioning labs inside the Carl Building Technologies Center. Also making visits to campus labs were Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson and Rep. Ryan Mackenzie.

During the discussion that followed, Penn College President Michael J. Reed served as a panelist, highlighting the role that Penn College plays in preparing students to meet industry's workforce needs. Reed also stressed the importance of industry collaboration, ensuring Penn College’s educational offerings remain relevant.

The partnership allows the college to be nimble in adapting its programs as workforce needs evolve.

“We quickly roll up our sleeves and we get things done by working with our industry partners,” Reed said.

“We recognize Penn College as an energy pipeline for producing skilled workers,” said William desRosiers, government and external affairs manager for Coterra Energy.

Also attending the event were U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan Jr. (who was unable to tour), Pennsylvania Rep. Jamie Flick, Environmental Protection Agency Region 3 administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Director Mike Cabell, and staff from the offices of U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick and Pennsylvania Sen. Gene Yaw, as well as panelists representing several energy-related businesses.