Monday, November 9, 2026
Photos courtesy of Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation
Jack C. Dincher (upper left), an electrical/mechatronics instructor at Pennsylvania College of Technology, serves as a panelist during the recent Reimagining Higher Education in a Changing Landscape Conference at the University of Maryland. Along with two officials from Notre Dame of Maryland University, Dincher presented “Balancing Workforce and Vocational Training with General Education and Lifelong Learning.” The Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation hosted the conference.
A Pennsylvania College of Technology electrical/mechatronics instructor served as a panelist for a discussion at a recent higher education conference at the University of Maryland.
Jack C. Dincher, along with two officials from Notre Dame of Maryland University, presented “Balancing Workforce and Vocational Training with General Education and Lifelong Learning” at the Reimagining Higher Education in a Changing Landscape Conference.
Hosted by the Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation, the gathering addressed major shifts, challenges and evolving strategies across colleges and universities.
Artificial intelligence was the main topic of Dincher’s session. “AI has been identified by many as a threat to the mind. But instead, it should be viewed as a tool for education. Educators need to adapt and embrace the rapidly changing technology because complacency will inevitably lead to irrelevance,” Dincher said.
Artificial intelligence was the main topic of Dincher’s presentation.
A former dual journeyman, process engineer and past president of his local United Steelworkers union, Dincher earned an associate degree in electronics & computer engineering technology: robotics & automation emphasis and a bachelor’s degree in applied management from Penn College. He joined the faculty in 2023.
“I left the conference energized about everything Penn College stands for,” Dincher said. “Our hands-on innovative learning model is what every other college is trying to transition to. I am very honored and grateful to have this experience and be part of this innovative college of technology.”
The Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation began in 1979, the result of a $16 million bequest from the estate of Charlotte W. Newcombe, a Philadelphia philanthropist. In her will, she named five trustees and charged them with creating a foundation that would continue her lifelong interest in supporting students pursuing higher education.
A member of the Visionary Society ($100,000-$499,999) on Penn College’s Donor Wall, the foundation has awarded the college $50,000 annually for the past four years to support Mature Student Scholarships.
For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions & Secondary Partnerships Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.
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