WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – Pennsylvania College of Technology has opened a new “Penn College at Pittsburgh” training site, marking an important step in growing the state’s workforce for building performance.
The facility, located at 7800 Susquehanna St., Pittsburgh, will expand training opportunities for Pennsylvania’s energy-efficiency and weatherization industry while helping to meet the increasing demand for resilient building practices.
College leaders, state officials and industry partners gathered for an open house to celebrate the site and highlight the power of strong partnerships in workforce training. The effort connects hands-on instruction with job opportunities and community impact.
The facility will serve as a practical training hub for building performance education. Trainees will gain the skills needed to improve home energy efficiency, lower utility costs and support healthier, more sustainable housing.
“This facility is an investment in people and communities,” said President Michael J. Reed. “Through strong partnerships and forward thinking, we are expanding access to high-quality training that prepares workers to meet important energy and housing needs.”
Richard P. Vilello Jr., deputy secretary of community affairs and development for the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, noted the role workforce programs play in strengthening local economies and advancing energy efficiency goals across the state.
Alison A. Diehl, vice president for Penn College Workforce Development, said the new site supports the college’s focus on career-ready education.
“The site allows us to deliver hands-on training that prepares people for real jobs,” she said. “By supporting weatherization workers and building performance professionals, we are creating clear paths to meaningful employment.”
Jason K. Embick, executive director of Penn College Building Performance, emphasized the facility’s hands-on design.
“The labs reflect real-world conditions,” Embick said. “Participants will build the skills and confidence needed to conduct energy audits, complete upgrades and ensure safe, efficient home systems.”
Visitors toured the facility and took part in live demonstrations of its training tools. Highlights included a test house demonstration using a blower door and infrared camera to show air leaks and energy performance.
A presentation during the event outlined the project’s development and the collaboration between public agencies, educators and industry partners. Funding from the DCED played a key role in making the facility possible, demonstrating the state’s commitment to workforce development and infrastructure improvement. A partnership with Pittsburgh Gateways Corp. further expands access to training and career opportunities in the region.