PHILADELPHIA, PA — Orleans Technical College, a beacon of opportunity for hands-on education and workforce development, marked its 50th anniversary with a bold celebration underscoring its critical role in shaping Pennsylvania’s thriving labor market. At the heart of the event, held at the college’s newly renovated campus, state and local leaders rallied around the Shapiro Administration’s vision of skills-based hiring, reaffirming a commitment to good-paying jobs for Pennsylvanians—regardless of whether a four-year degree is part of the plan.
On Wednesday, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker led the event, emphasizing that every career path matters when it comes to building a strong and sustainable workforce. “Orleans Technical College plays a vital role in helping Pennsylvanians build rewarding, family-sustaining careers through hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials,” said Secretary Walker. “The Shapiro Administration is deeply committed to supporting skills-based hiring and ensuring that every career path—whether it requires a college degree or not—is valued and respected. We’re excited to see what Orleans Tech accomplishes in the next 50 years to strengthen Pennsylvania’s workforce and help more families achieve economic mobility.”
A Legacy of Workforce Development
Orleans Technical College has spent five decades positioning itself as a leader in training individuals for in-demand careers. From trades like carpentry, electrical work, HVAC, and plumbing to essential roles in healthcare, Orleans Tech hasn’t just provided skills; it has elevated lives. Thousands of graduates have gained industry-recognized credentials, enabling them to secure competitive positions, foster economic stability, and contribute to the vibrant growth of the Greater Philadelphia region.
Cynthia F. Figueroa, President and CEO of JEVS Human Services, which operates Orleans Tech, hailed the college’s influence on the region. “Today, we honor 50 years of Orleans Technical College’s dedication to preparing individuals for meaningful, living-wage, high-demand careers,” said Figueroa. “These efforts are a testament to our belief in the transformative power of education and trades training. We are grateful to Governor Josh Shapiro, State Representative Martina White, and all our partners for investing in our vision to strengthen communities through creating sustainable paths to independence and economic security.”
Renovations Signal a Bold Future
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of Orleans Tech’s extensively renovated campus. The $1.3 million project, bolstered by a $500,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), modernizes facilities to provide cutting-edge training. Enhanced labs, upgraded lounges, and a new atrium create a collaborative environment where students are empowered to learn, innovate, and prepare for evolving job markets.
These improvements send a strong message. As technology and industry demands evolve, institutions like Orleans Tech are prioritizing the tools and spaces needed to keep education relevant and effective. By creating state-of-the-art training environments, the school aligns itself with the real-world expectations of employers, ensuring graduates step into their roles ready to excel.
The Importance of Skills-Based Hiring
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has championed skills-based hiring as an antidote to traditional hiring models that often overlook talent in favor of degrees. This approach prioritizes practical expertise and industry credentials, recognizing the value of hands-on education for trades and healthcare.
“For too long, certain career paths have been undervalued, leaving those without a four-year degree unfairly excluded from opportunities,” Secretary Walker asserted. “By focusing on skills, not degrees, we are rebalancing the scales and fostering a hiring philosophy that respects the varied paths Pennsylvanians take toward success.”
This philosophy aligns perfectly with the mission of Orleans Technical College, which has long emphasized empowering students with tangible skills over theoretical credentials. By forging partnerships with industry leaders and aligning training programs with market demands, Orleans Tech is not just producing graduates—it’s fueling Pennsylvania’s economic momentum.
A Boost for Philadelphia’s Economy
The impact of Orleans Tech extends beyond its students to the broader Philadelphia community. By preparing individuals for high-demand roles, the institution has become a driver of economic growth, helping local businesses fill critical positions with well-trained workers. This ripple effect supports families, strengthens neighborhoods, and uplifts the region’s economy.
The college’s focus on career readiness also addresses a pressing issue in workforce development—closing the gap for historically underrepresented and underserved groups in skilled trades and healthcare. Through targeted outreach and partnerships, Orleans Tech ensures that every individual, regardless of background, has access to transformative opportunities.
Looking Ahead
As Orleans Technical College celebrates its legacy, the focus is firmly on the future. The next 50 years promise continued innovation, deeper partnerships with industry leaders, and an unwavering commitment to empowering Pennsylvanians. With leadership from the Shapiro Administration and local advocates, institutions like Orleans Tech serve as a model for how education can meet workforce demands head-on while lifting individuals into family-sustaining careers.
For Pennsylvania, that’s a strategy worth celebrating—and expanding.
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