Penn State Scranton Hosts TEC Talk When: Oct 3, 2023, 9:00 am – 11:00 amWhere: Penn State Scranton, Engineering Building Campus Drive, Dunmore, PA 18512 This forum will showcase how Penn State University is helping small-medium manufacturers (SMM) grow their Industry 5.0 workforce and advance their technologies using artificial intelligence. Presentations will feature examples of student/faculty engagement through university-industry partnerships with Penn State’s Center for Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to Industry (AIMI), the Nittany AI Alliance, and Penn State Scranton’s Information Systems Technology (IST) and Mechanical Engineering programs. Participants will be asked to share their own needs to inform future partnership initiatives. Following the forum, Dr. Marwan Wafa, Penn State Scranton Chancellor, will host a tour of the new Engineering Building. Refreshments will also be provided. Who should attend: manufacturing industry executives, NEPIRC staff, educators, students, and other economic development professionals. Speakers include: Soundar Kumara, PhD, Allen, E., and Allen, M., Pearce Professor of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering and Director of the Center for the Applications of AI & ML to Industry (AIMI) Andy Gatto, Strategic Partner Manager of the Nittany AI Alliance Majid Chastaz, PhD, PE, Mechanical Engineering Program Coordinator at Penn State Scranton Fred Aebli, IT Program Co-Coordinator (Internships), Instructor/Advisor Penn State Scranton Don Webster, Facilitator. Executive Director, tecBRIDGE. About the Northeastern PA Technology, Economy, Community (TEC) Talks In partnership with local industries, non-profit organizations, Penn State faculty, and Penn State Commonwealth Campuses in Northeast Pennsylvania, PennTAP is hosting a forum series designed to spur discussion on emerging technologies and their potential to drive the regional economy, as well as identify use-inspired research and workforce education needs.
NEPIRC RELEASES STATEWIDE MANUFACTURING REPORT Report highlights Pennsylvania as sixth greatest industrial economy in the nation The Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) today released its Pennsylvania Manufacturing Industry Report 2023, an in-depth report on the impact of manufacturing across the Commonwealth. NEPIRC researched and produced this report independently of any other organization. “This report objectively presents the most important metrics, trends and measures relative to Pennsylvania’s manufacturing economy and uses unbiased data and rigorous analysis to compare the Commonwealth’s industrial economy to other sectors within the state and to those of our peer group states across the nation,” said Eric Joseph Esoda, president and CEO of NEPIRC, when announcing the publication. Esoda went on to explain that while, for the sake of analysis, the report occasionally presents the manufacturing sector as “vertical” – meaning a sector distinct from other segments of the economy such as agriculture, energy or health care – “manufacturing is actually much more “horizontal” than “vertical” because it is essential to the success of a multitude of other sectors. “Simply put,” said Esoda, “Pennsylvania cannot compete and win in arenas such as aerospace, agribusiness, alternative energy, biotechnology, infrastructure, pharmaceutical readiness or natural resource utilization without the resident manufacturing capability to support those sectors.” The statistics detailed within the report illustrate the importance of manufacturing throughout the Commonwealth. For example, across Pennsylvania manufacturing accounts for: More than $116 billion in Gross State Product (GSP) – or 13.8% of the Commonwealth’s total GSP Over 575,000 full-time jobs Nearly $41 billion in annual wages paid to employees Over $43 billion in exports to other nations. “While impressive in its own right, the data in the report actually understates the true impact of Pennsylvania’s manufacturers because it reflects only the employment, wages, output and economic activity directly related to Pennsylvania’s nearly 15,000 manufacturing firms. Economists recognize that manufacturing has among the highest employment, earnings and sales multiplier effects of any industry – meaning that each dollar of sales and net earnings recorded by a manufacturing firm and each direct manufacturing job supports a multitude of sales, earnings and jobs in downstream industries such as services, transportation and logistics, retail and so forth,” explained Esoda, “So the true impact of our great manufacturers is exponentially higher when those indirect benefits are considered.” The report highlights that over the past 15 years Pennsylvania’s manufacturing output increased by 49.3% – from $77.8 billion to $116.3 billion. That rate of growth surpassed that of competitor states Michigan (39.6%), Ohio (39.6%), North Carolina (28.1%) and New York (22.2%). Pennsylvania’s industrial growth even surpassed that of high-growth states like Indiana (46.9%) and Texas (45.9%). The expansion of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing economy also enabled the state to move from the eighth largest industrial economy in the nation to the sixth largest. In addition to being the sixth largest goods producing state in the country, Pennsylvania holds the sixth position in terms of number of manufacturing jobs. Except for during the pandemic, Pennsylvania has consistently added manufacturing jobs and has risen to become home to nearly 4.5% of America’s total advanced manufacturing workforce. Nearly one in ten working Pennsylvanians report to a manufacturing profession each workday. Each of those workers share in $41 billion in wages paid annually and exceptional benefits packages, which frequently include employee-sponsored retirement plans, healthcare coverage, tuition assistance and generous paid vacations and holidays. NEPIRC published the report as part of its ongoing efforts to support the manufacturing industry, raise awareness of manufacturing careers and keep the manufacturing support programs at the forefront of the minds of legislators and policy makers. “It’s sometimes easy to overlook a cornerstone of our economy that has upheld the Commonwealth for decades in favor of things that seem more trendy or glamorous on the surface but generate only a fraction of the benefits and impact,” said Esoda. “Our intention with this report is to ensure that leaders across Pennsylvania recognize the criticality of our manufacturing industry and the value of the programs and entities that contribute to their enhanced competitiveness, resiliency and success in a global economy,” he added. NEPIRC is one of seven Industrial Resource Centers (IRCs) across Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania IRC Program, supported by the Manufacturing PA initiative within the Pennsylvania Department of Commerce, represents the Commonwealth’s flagship program for enhancing the vibrancy, strength and growth of the Commonwealth’s small and mid-sized manufacturers. The IRCs are also supported by the National Institute of Standards & Technology as Manufacturing Extension Partnership affiliates. According to the report, over the past 10 years, Pennsylvania IRC clients have realized the following benefits by working with their local Center: $1.76 billion in top-line growth $5 billion in retention of at-risk sales $846 million in operating cost savings 55,477 jobs created and retained. The IRCs also enabled their clients to invest nearly $2 billion in expansion, modernization and workforce upskilling in Pennsylvania over the past 10 years. The complete 20-page Pennsylvania Manufacturing Industry Report 2023 can be viewed on and downloaded from the NEPIRC website, www.nepirc.com. Hard copies are also available by contacting NEPIRC. For questions about the report, and for more information, please contact Eric Joseph Esoda via email at Eric@NEPIRC.com. NEPIRC is a not-for-profit organization providing world-class technical, engineering, consultative, and training services to small and mid-sized manufacturers across an 11-county region of northeastern, northern and parts of central Pennsylvania. More information can be found at www.NEPIRC.com or via email to Eric Joseph Esoda at Eric@NEPIRC.com. Download Report
NeighborWorks Northeast Pennsylvania Receives Grant from PPL Foundation NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania is pleased to announce it has received a $2,500 grant from the PPL Foundation. These funds will support the Smart Home Technology for Older Adults program. The Smart Home Technology for Older Adults program, a part of NeighborWorks’ Aging in Place program, which provides accessibility and critical safety modifications to older adults, allowing them to continue living safely and independently in their homes and communities. This program is made possible through a partnership with the University of Scranton’s Occupational Therapy Department and Lackawanna College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program. The program includes the installation of smart home technology items such as Echo Shows, Ring Doorbells, Smart Plugs, Alexa units, and exterior solar lights. These devices enhance safety and independence for older adults, helping them with tasks like identifying visitors at the door, turning on lights, and setting medication reminders. Mary Endrusick, NeighborWorks’ Aging in Place Manager, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The installation of these smart home devices will significantly improve the safety and quality of life for older adults in our community. We are grateful for the generous support of the PPL Foundation in making this program possible.” About NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania:NeighborWorks is a nonprofit organization that has worked for more than 40 years to increase the financial stability of families and individuals by providing programs and services that create and preserve responsible homeownership and affordable housing throughout the City of Scranton, Lackawanna County and Northeastern Pennsylvania. With programs including homeownership coaching and education, aging in place, home renovation services, and neighborhood revitalization initiatives, NeighborWorks is deeply ingrained in the community. More information about NeighborWorks can be found at www.nwnepa.org. About the PPL Foundation:The PPL Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization formed to support community initiatives in the areas served by PPL Corporation’s utilities. Through strategic partnerships, the PPL Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that are engaged in innovative and groundbreaking work to create vibrant, sustainable communities; advance diversity, equity and inclusion; and support children’s success from cradle to career in both Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. Learn more at pplcares.com.
Keystone College Hosts Homecoming and Family Weekend Keystone College will unite the past and the present with Homecoming and Family Weekend October 6-7 on campus. The weekend offers a great opportunity for alumni to reunite with former classmates for a wide variety of events and activities and for families of Keystone students to celebrate as a college community. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit: www.keystone.edu/homecoming. Homecoming and Family Weekend committee members meeting to plan the event are, from left: Megan Mould, Lucy McConkey, Tim Pryle, Mary Stremski, Scott Gower, Elena O’Connor, Lucas Taylor, Fran Langan, Ed.D., and Sabrina Gray.
Johnson College Offers Welding Courses Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program is enrolling students in its Fundamentals of Welding and Intermediate Welding courses at the Scranton campus. The Fundamentals course will begin on October 5, 2023, followed by the intermediate course beginning on October 19, 2023. The Fundamentals of Welding and Intermediate Welding courses provide specific instruction in Oxy-Fuel, Gas Tungsten Arc (TIG, Gas Metal Arc (MIG), and Shielded Metal Arc (Stick) welding processes. The course consists of 40% theory and 60% hands-on practice. Additional lectures are given on basic metallurgy, welding codes, nondestructive examination, and welding symbols. The fundamentals course fee is $1,870 and includes a PPE kit. The intermediate course fee is $2,750 and includes certification testing fees. The courses can be bundled for a reduced cost of $4,251. To learn more or enroll call 570-702-8979 or email continuinged@johnson.edu. To register for the course, visit johnson.edu/continuingeducation. About Johnson College Johnson College provides real-world, hands-on learning in a supportive environment and prepares graduates to enter into or advance in their in-demand careers. Johnson College was founded in 1912 and is the region’s only technical college, offering 18 associate degrees, four academic certificates, and over 30 continuing education programs. A low student-to-instructor ratio supports an emphasis on hands-on learning. Located in Scranton on a 44-acre campus with a satellite campus serving the greater Hazleton area, the College is an accredited, private, non-profit, co-educational institution with a strong tradition of working with regional businesses and industries to ensure a skilled and qualified workforce. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.
Exhibitors Featured at Marywood’s Maslow Study Gallery The Marywood University Art Department will unveil “The Maslow Study Gallery Featuring Jasper Johns & Robert Rauschenberg,” an exhibit running from September 16 – October 28, 2023, during an opening reception on September 16, from 2-5 p.m., in conjunction with “The Russell Collection” in Mahady Gallery and “The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Stephen Garrison” in Suraci Gallery. This event will be held in the Maslow Study Gallery for Contemporary Art in the Shields Center for Visual Arts at Marywood University. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public. This exhibition features ten important works by Jasper Johns (b. 1930) and Robert Rauschenberg (1925-2008) from The Maslow Collection. In showcasing two giants of 20th and 21st century American Art, the exhibition offers an examination of the artists’ fluid use of imagery, language, technique, scale, and material. It also allows for conversation around the generational impact of the artists’ work. Gallery hours for The Maslow Study Gallery are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information on The Maslow Study gallery, go to: marywood.edu/community/galleries/maslow-study-gallery-for-contemporary-art. For additional information about Marywood University’s art galleries, visit marywood.edu/community/galleries or call (570) 348-6278.
Johnson College Hazleton Now Enrolling Students in Medical Assistant Program Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program is currently enrolling students in its evening Medical Assistant program. The class will be held at Johnson College at the CAN DO Training Center in the Humboldt Industrial Park in Hazle Township, Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. beginning on November 6, 2023. This program prepares students to assist physicians by performing functions related to the clinical aspects of a medical office. Functions include preparing patients for examination, treatment, routine laboratory procedures, pharmacology, and taking and documenting vital signs. Plus, students will learn the fundamentals of phlebotomy and venipunctures, anatomy & physiology, and medical terminology encountered in the field. Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties required of a medical assistant. The class fee is $5,000 and is approved by PA CareerLink for those eligible for funding through their local CareerLink. To learn more or enroll call 570-702-8979 or email continuinged@johnson.edu. To register for the course, visit http://johnson.edu/continuing-education/ About Johnson College Johnson College provides real-world, hands-on learning in a supportive environment and prepares graduates to enter into or advance in their in-demand careers. Johnson College was founded in 1912 and is the region’s only technical college, offering 18 associate degrees, four academic certificates, and over 30 continuing education programs. A low student-to-instructor ratio supports an emphasis on hands-on learning. Located in Scranton on a 44-acre campus with a satellite campus serving the greater Hazleton area, the College is an accredited, private, non-profit, co-educational institution with a strong tradition of working with regional businesses and industries to ensure a skilled and qualified workforce. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.
Woodloch Resort to Host 15th Annual “A Night for the Cure” On Sunday, October 22, 2023, Woodloch Pines Resort, an inclusive resort in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, will host the 15th annual A Night for the Cure. The tricky-tray fundraiser benefits The Penn State Cancer Institute (PSCI) as part of BK Hope Cures. Originally established 24 years ago by Bob Kiesendahl (BK), co-owner of Woodloch and leukemia survivor, the organization’s mission is to raise awareness and funds in the fight against cancer. Held in the Heritage Nightclub at Woodloch Pines from 5 to 8 PM, the family-friendly evening will feature over 150 items donated by local individuals and businesses, as well as wine and beer tastings, hors d’oeuvres, a dessert table, and a 50/50 raffle. Guests will enjoy live entertainment and have the chance to win dining gift certificates, unique gift baskets, and overnight stay packages at the area’s leading resorts and hotels. Admission costs $15, and 100% of the profits benefit The Penn State Cancer Institute breast cancer research and awareness efforts. The PSCI is a leading cancer facility centrally located in Hershey, PA. The dress code is casual, and attendees are encouraged to wear pink in support of the cause. Last year, over 400 people attended and more than $23,000 was raised! “Each year, A Night for the Cure continues to grow and improve. It’s a special evening to raise money for a very important cause, demonstrate our solidarity with survivors, celebrate with friends and even win some fantastic prizes. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the local businesses and individuals who generously contribute their time and skills to create this exceptional event,” said Bob Kiesendahl. In addition to A Night for the Cure, Hope Cures also holds two other fundraising events each year, which include both a golf tournament and a 5K run/walk. Over the past 24 years, Hope Cures has raised over $1.5 million. These funds benefit cancer research and patient care at several worthy facilities and foundations. For more information about Hope Cures and this October’s great event, please visit: www.bkhopecures.org/trickytray. Additionally, table and room reservations can be arranged by calling Woodloch Resort at 570-685-8002.
University of Scranton Ranked in U.S Top 10 for 30 Years For three decades U.S. News & World Report has ranked The University of Scranton among the top 10 regional universities in the north, placing Scranton No. 5 in its 2024 edition of the “Best Colleges” guidebook, which became available online today. “From the beginning of its Best College rankings, U.S. News has advised colleges not to cheer – or jeer – about year-to-year position changes in the rankings, but rather to look for consistency of trends in the ranking achieved over the years,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton. “Well, I am pleased to say, through the talent and dedication of our faculty and staff, and the outstanding success of our students and graduates, we have achieved exceptional consistency in our status as a top 10 university.” U.S. News also ranked Scranton No. 8 in its category for “Best Undergraduate Teaching,” a selection of the top colleges in the nation that express a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching. Several of Scranton’s programs were also included in national rankings, as opposed to listings by category. U.S. News ranked Scranton among the nation’s “Best Undergraduate Programs in Accounting” at No. 38 in the U.S.; among the “Best Undergraduate Programs in Finance” at No. 40; among the “Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs” at No. 112; and among “Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs” at No. 222 (where a doctorate is not offered). Scranton’s was also listed among the 554 “Best Undergraduate Computer Science Programs” in the nation. Scranton also ranked No. 211 among America’s “Best Undergraduate Business Programs,” which just listed schools that hold accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). For these program listings, U.S. News only ranked schools holding the highest recognized national accreditations in their fields. The rankings were based solely on dean and senior faculty recommendations from peer institutions. In addition, U.S. News ranked Scranton No. 54 as a “Best Value Regional University in the North,” which compares academic quality of programs to cost of attendance. This is the tenth consecutive year U.S. News has recognized Scranton as a “Best Value” school. Scranton was ranked No. 115 in its category in “Top Performers on Social Mobility,” which looks at the success of schools that enroll and graduate students who were awarded with Pell Grants. U.S. News uses data on up to 19 measures of academic quality to rank bachelor’s degree colleges in America. For its rankings, U.S. News considers a range of quality indicators that include a peer assessment of academic excellence; faculty resources; financial resources; graduate indebtedness; freshman retention; graduation rates; Pell graduation rates, and graduation performance rates, which compares a school’s actual graduation rates with predicted graduation rates based on characteristics of the incoming class. U.S. News ranking analysis also includes student selectivity, as measured by SAT or ACT scores and high school ranking of students in the top 25 percent of their class. U.S. News categorizes colleges for their rankings based on the official Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classification of universities. The 2024 U.S. News “Best Colleges” rankings became available online Sept. 18.
