The college recently received two notable grants that will assist with growing the workforce pathway. A $199,700 Manufacturing PA Training to Career (MTTC) grant award from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will support the development of a Level II Mechatronics program to support the advanced manufacturing workforce in the Lehigh Valley. The goal of the program, which will partner with regional companies, is to train 20 workers annually to increase their automation, robotics, and electromechanical engineering skills.

Through the grant, LCCC will upgrade its Mechatronics program to ensure current employees are trained on the latest manufacturing technology improving their job performance, as well as easing the transition of new employees into the workforce.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant, which will enable us to expand our Mechatronics II program offerings and create a more robust stackable credential path,” said Dr. Ann Bieber. “It provides upward mobility for workers in the community, providing higher paying roles and greater job stability.”

The MTTC program works collaboratively with local manufacturers to identify and teach missing essential skills for entry level applicants seeking manufacturing employment, engage youth or those with barriers to career opportunities in manufacturing, and advance capacity for local or regional manufacturers.

In addition, the college received $1 million from the PA Department of Education, part of $14 million awarded statewide to 15 public institutions of higher education to enable more high school students to enroll in dual credit programs, giving them more opportunities to chart their own course and prepare for successful careers.

Dual credit programs open doors for students to get a head start on college and career success. This grant will help more young people, especially those historically underrepresented in higher education, access in-demand courses that lead to credentials and in-demand careers. The purpose of the program is to provide funding for public colleges and universities to increase capacity to provide dual credit courses.

On Monday, April 28, Mechatronics Instructors, Mel Renninger and Rich Kerecz held a graduation for MI Windows and Doors. Ten students received their Certificates of Completion and Articulation Agreements as Industrial Automation Technicians.

The company, whose manufacturing facility is based in Hegins, PA, is a new client of the mobile manufacturing lab. Cohort #2 will begin training on Monday, May 5, in Mobile Lab 001.

The Tamaqua Community Day 5K, sponsored by LCCC, will take place on Saturday, May 31, at 9 a.m. in conjunction with the Tamaqua Community Day celebration at Owl Creek Reservoir. The start and finish line will be at the Owl Creek Pavilion. Walkers will complete 1 lap around Owl Creek and runners will complete 2 laps. This race is free to run, but if you’d like to contribute, any donation amount is appreciated!

All donations collected will go towards the Owl Creek Commission to help with maintenance. Race is “no frills”, meaning no t-shirt or bibs. Bathrooms are available on site. Free parking is located on Owl Creek Road. After race food and drinks available for purchase with the top 5 male/female finishers receiving a free drink or food item.

Day-of registration will be available starting at 8 a.m. Register in advance here.

Please join us to say farewell to Rachel Plaksa and Janet Seggern, who are retiring. We will be having cupcakes in the ARC 107 office suite on Monday, May 12, from 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Please stop by for a sweet treat and to wish them well. Thank you Rachel and Janet for your many years of service at LCCC. You will both be missed.

If you’re working toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or have already finished the process and want some assistance or want to help others, Ann Turoczy is working to create a friendly group to share tips and support each other through the process. To learn more or join the group contact aturoczy@lccc.edu.

The Office of College Relations and Student Life is organizing the LCCC volunteer event for MusikFest ’25. Join us for a fun-filled evening of volunteering at Festplatz on Thursday, Aug. 7. We need volunteers to serve in the following roles: beer servers, soda booth attendants, and cash conversion assistants. LCCC will be volunteering from 5 – 11 p.m.

Please note that child abuse clearances and a criminal history report are required. Clearances are only needed for volunteers who did not participate last year. I can obtain these clearances from HR. Additionally, ArtsQuest will provide training on two Wednesdays: June 18 and June 25, from 2-3 p.m., so that we are prepared for the event.

As a thank-you for volunteering, you will receive:

– A food and drink voucher to use that evening
– A free MusikFest t-shirt
– Opportunities for networking and building connections
– A chance to team build with colleagues, students, and alumni
– Free parking shuttle passes
– A great night of fun and music

Please complete this form by May 23 if you are interested in being a part of this exciting event. For questions, contact Tina Dowling-Hackett at Tdowlinghackett@lccc.edu.

Join us for some fun in the Design Den makerspace with STEAM activities on May 12, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Participants can build a bird feeder, create a lava lamp, and more! This event is free of charge and fun for all ages! Please contact mimdorf@lccc.edu with any questions!

We are in need of additional volunteers for Commencement. Volunteer opportunities include directing students and guests, lining up the students, handing out programs, etc. Commencement is Wednesday, May 21. Most volunteer shifts are from 4:15-6:30 p.m.

If interested, please email jrooney@lccc.edu.