Wednesday, October 21, 2026
photos by Alexandra Butler, photographer/photo editor, except as credited
Penn College hosted more than 50 educators from Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas last week as part of an Energy Educator Retreat.
The multi-day retreat, sponsored by Devon Energy and the American Petroleum Institute, was held in Scranton.
On Oct. 15, the educators (both K-12 and college level) traveled to Penn College to learn about its programs and participate in hands-on activities. Participants were able to mold their own keychains in the polymers lab, learn about electric vehicle technologies in automotive, make their own bottle opener in the Gene Haas Center for Innovative Manufacturing, and much more.
The annual Energy Educator Retreat – held in different parts of the country each year – brings together educators and energy industry professionals to provide firsthand insight into energy production, technology and career opportunities, providing real-word experiences teachers can share in the classroom.
In a Penn College electrical lab, visiting educators wire a three-phase motor.
Allan M. Meck, instructor of welding automation, introduces participants to some of the robotic welding cells in the college's Lycoming Engines Metal Trades Center.
In a parking lot near College Avenue Labs, an educator takes on the "Don't Spill the Water" challenge.
Dakota C. Harrison (right), instructor of CNC machining and automation, guides a group in setting up and operating a CNC machine in the Gene Haas Center for Innovative Manufacturing.
Charles F. Probst, assistant professor of automotive, talks with participants about modern hybrid and electric vehicle technology.
Randall L. Moser, assistant professor of electronics, guides participants in designing and programming a traffic signal system using a programmable logic controller. (Photo by Jennifer A. Cline, college editor)
Vii J. Rice, assistant professor of polymer engineering technology, describes polymers and the need for more engineers and technicians who understand how to work with them. (Photo by Jennifer A. Cline, college editor)
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