MEDIA, PA — Delaware County Community College (DCCC) is stepping up to address the region’s workforce demands by hosting a series of industry forums to highlight its critical role in job growth and economic development. The forums will provide insights into DCCC’s initiatives, including its Culinary Arts program, the Building Community Campaign, and the anticipated impact of the new Southeast Center set to open in January 2026.
Highlighting Workforce Solutions
Pennsylvania is experiencing a labor shortage in high-demand fields like culinary arts and hospitality—a challenge DCCC is tackling head-on. The College’s renowned Culinary Arts program combines hands-on instruction from experienced chef-instructors with opportunities for students to gain industry-relevant technical skills. This program supports the region’s economic needs and aims to produce graduates ready to excel in the culinary and hospitality industries.
Alumna Khia Smith of Lansdowne praised the program for its quality and flexibility, stating, “I acquired not only great technical skills, but also ‘soft’ and supervisory skills that will help position me for management jobs in the hospitality industry.”
The Building Community Campaign
Central to DCCC’s efforts is the $7.5 million Building Community Campaign, which seeks to expand access to education, boost social and economic mobility, and strengthen workforce pipelines across Delaware and Chester Counties. Of the total, $5 million is earmarked for the development of the new Southeast Center in Drexel Hill, which will include a state-of-the-art culinary demonstration kitchen. Additional funding will support workforce development initiatives across the region.
By the Southeast Center’s fifth year, projections suggest 11,030 trained workers will enter high-priority fields. The initiative is also expected to generate $1.5 billion in local economic impact, with a significant return on investment for campaign contributions.
Upcoming Industry Forums
To foster collaboration with local businesses and organizations, DCCC is hosting four specialized industry forums—offering opportunities to learn more about its workforce development efforts and the Building Community Campaign. Each session will focus on a specific industry sector and include presentations, discussions, and a networking reception.
- STEM – Wednesday, February 12, 4 p.m.
- Skilled Trades/Advanced Technology – Wednesday, February 26, 4 p.m.
- Healthcare – Wednesday, March 5, 4 p.m.
- Nonprofits – Wednesday, March 26, 4 p.m.
The forums will take place in the STEM Building, Room 1403, on DCCC’s Main Campus (901 S. Media Line Road, Media, PA 19063). Interested participants can RSVP by emailing RSVP@dccc.edu, calling 610-359-5131, or visiting dccc.edu/campaign.
DCCC Powers Workforce Growth and Regional Prosperity
“As the demand for a skilled workforce reaches new heights, the College is poised and ready to prepare our career and technical education students to meet the region’s employment needs,” said Dr. Laura Chisholm, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at DCCC.
With its new Southeast Center, innovative programs, and regional partnerships, DCCC is committed to driving workforce development and creating lasting economic growth. The College’s efforts promise to deliver impactful solutions for immediate challenges while fostering long-term prosperity for the community.
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