Marty attends Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association event

Pennsylvania College of Technology was recently represented at an event to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. Patrick Marty, chief government and international relations officer, attended the press conference of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association on Oct. 3 at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg.

Also in attendance were Rep. David Rowe, Rep. Tim Twardzik, Rep. Parke Wentling, Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill, other members of the Legislature, and members of organizations from across the state. All gathered with one goal in mind: to celebrate the innovation, dedication and impact of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector. 

Marty’s participation at the event helped reinforce the work of Penn College and the many ways the school supports those interested in the manufacturing field. 

“Penn College was pleased to stand up with our manufacturing industry partners like Shell Polymers, Volvo Group and Mack Trucks, and Armstrong World Industries, among others, in celebration of the state’s modern manufacturing sector,” Marty said. “Pennsylvania manufacturing’s successful growth is not only vital to our prosperity, as evidenced by the sector’s priority as a commonwealth area of investment, but it is also creating life-changing career opportunities for Penn College students and alumni.” 

Penn College offers manufacturing degrees and certificate programs, apprenticeships and specialized training. Its Workforce Development division plays a vital role in extending the college’s mission beyond traditional degree programs by providing training and consultation to improve the skill levels and competitiveness of its clients. 

Sara Hillis Ousby, executive director of business and industry for Workforce Development, referenced a significant projected shortfall in the manufacturing industry over the next few years but pointed to Penn College as a contributor in helping to ease the burden for industry. In 2025, 63 individuals completed an advanced manufacturing apprenticeship, contributing to the growth of the skilled labor market.

“Penn College plays a vital role in strengthening Pennsylvania’s manufacturing industry by directly addressing the skills gap through hands-on degree and flexible apprenticeship models,” Ousby said. “Our workforce development efforts serve companies throughout the commonwealth, preparing job-ready talent with the technical skills and real-world experience manufacturers demand.” 

To learn more about Workforce Development at Penn College, visit www.pct.edu/wd.

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