Randy Griffith
rgriffith@tribdem.com
JOHNSTOWN —
Eight qualified practical nursing students and 15 qualified machine shop students will be given free education through a $200,000 grant to Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center.
The state Labor Department workforce development grant answers the need for health-care workers and those skilled with the latest computer-aided machining equipment, John S. Augustine II, administrative director, said at the Schoolhouse Road facility in Richland Township.
“This is very exciting,” Augustine said, announcing the grant.
“This is for those students getting full tuition. This is not going to support some study for something that might happen.”
Graduates of both programs have been in high demand in recent years, Augustine noted, pointing to growing needs in health-care and machining industries.
The school’s machine shop was deactivated a few years back when trends focused on technology and other areas away from traditional manufacturing, he said. But local companies began asking for more skilled workers, supporting an investment in the latest component engineering equipment.
“In September, this shop will be operating with classes from
8 a.m. to 10 p.m.,” Augustine said.
Upstairs in the nursing suite, students practice with the latest computer-simulated training mannequins.
“We do a lot of clinical labs and clinical situations,” acting coordinator Judy Stemple said.
“It is a good way to extend what we do in the clinical setting.”
Nursing tuition is $9,750 for local students, and the machine shop tuition is $9,750.
Those interested in the free-tuition program may receive more information by contacting the school at 266-1300 or online at www.gjctc.org.
