PHILADELPHIA, PA — In a concerted effort to enhance career opportunities for graduates of Pennsylvania’s community colleges, Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor on Tuesday concluded his statewide tour at the Community College of Philadelphia. This initiative underscores the critical role that community colleges play in equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in high-demand careers.
Auditor General DeFoor, himself a community college alumnus, underscored the value of associate degree programs in providing practical, hands-on training. “As a community college graduate myself, I can tell you firsthand that associate degree programs offer practical, hands-on training that prepares students for high-demand careers like auditing,” DeFoor remarked during his visit. His tour across the state highlighted the expanded career pathways now available to graduates of accredited associate degree programs, reflecting a significant policy shift within his department.
Historically, entry into the Department of the Auditor General required a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, along with 12 credits of accounting coursework. However, this criterion has been broadened to include associate degree holders, thanks to the revamped Intern to Hire Program. This program now offers individuals, who have completed their associate degrees within the last six months, the opportunity to secure full-time positions. Candidates are eligible upon completing 900 hours of work, and contingent on successful performance reviews.
At Community College of Philadelphia, the significance of this shift was emphasized by Dr. Donald Guy Generals, the college’s president, who acknowledged the contributions of the institution’s students to the local workforce. “Students and graduates of Community College of Philadelphia make up a major part of our community’s workforce,” he stated, expressing gratitude for the Auditor General’s engagement with the college.
Throughout his tour, DeFoor visited 15 community colleges, including Erie County Community College, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Northampton Community College, among others. Each visit served as a platform to promote the expanded job opportunities within the Auditor General’s department and to recognize the vital role of community colleges in preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.
Frank Santos, Workforce Development Recruitment Program Coordinator, and Dr. Alycia Marshall, Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Success at the Community College of Philadelphia, also participated in the tour. They reinforced the message that community colleges are pivotal in fostering a well-prepared and versatile workforce.
In closing, Auditor General DeFoor encouraged prospective candidates to explore the career opportunities available within the Commonwealth, highlighting the benefits and job satisfaction that come with public service. His tour not only emphasizes the importance of community colleges in workforce development but also signals a commitment to broadening access to rewarding career paths for graduates across the state.
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