Penn College students assist Ethnos360 during one-week trip to Missouri

Three Pennsylvania College of Technology students recently joined Friends in Action, International, for a one-week work trip to assist Ethnos360 at a training center in Missouri. The non-denominational Christian organization is focused on getting the Gospels to unreached groups – oftentimes on the fringes of civilization. 

“People skilled in the various trades, such as carpentry, masonry, electrical work, plumbing, automotive maintenance and welding, serve alongside national and international Gospel workers to overcome site-specific infrastructure and development challenges,” said Justin W. Beishline, corporate relations officer at Penn College. “Skilled and general laborers work with FIA members to provide clean water solutions, assist with community development and provide various mission support and educational opportunities.” 

The three students – Adam J. Snyder, of Philadelphia, who is pursuing degrees in heavy construction equipment technology and diesel technology; Sam W. Garvin, of Danville, a heating, ventilation & air conditioning technology major; and Cale M. Rice, of Julian, landscape/plant production technology – each brought with them a love of their respective fields and a willingness to take on just about anything to assist with the project. 

Tasks included helping a mechanic get a pick-up truck back on the road, replacing a support beam under a floor, removing existing HVAC duct work in preparation for a new system, preparing walls for drywall, and getting a room and hallway ready for new flooring. 

“As you can see, we shared our trades and willingness to learn new construction skills to accomplish goals that were a great benefit to the maintenance crew at Ethnos,” said Paul Brosey, stateside team coordinator and FIA team lead. “What a privilege to have Sam, Adam and Cale along with us as we gave time and abilities to further the goals of Ethnos.” 

The trio also visited Offgrid Tech, a division of Ethnos that assists ministries in managing the physical aspects of furthering the Gospel in remote locations.  

“What an experience to talk with and ask questions of the inventor of many of the unique innovations,” Brosey said. “Also, hearing from one of the missionaries helped to bring into perspective the need for our assistance, as they need men and women with the construction skills to complement them with their language, cultural and spiritual skills.” 

The volunteer opportunity was enlightening for Garvin, who joined the trip because he was interested in giving his time to people who needed it. 

“I enjoyed the whole trip, from doing the work to learning about the training center,” he said. “The most rewarding part of my trip was getting to talk with other missionaries on campus there, because I want to be a missionary. It was a very good experience.” 

For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, visit www.pct.edu, email admissions@pct.edu or call toll-free 800-367-9222.