Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) was selected as the recipient of the Energizing Community Education Project grant funding through the West Penn Energy Fund. The amount of $41,000.00 was received by the College to be used in community programming over the next 12 months.
The program is expected to benefit residents in Cameron, Elk, McKean, and Potter Counties by enhancing their knowledge and skills involving virtual reality, promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources, and contributing to the overall economic development and quality of life in the West Penn Power communities of northcentral Pennsylvania. The educational programs will be conducted at Six & Kane in Kane, Pennsylvania, and the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce in Emporium, Pennsylvania. The project will involve collaboration between NPRC, local school districts, and community organizations.
The Energizing Community Education Project involves comprehensive initiatives aimed at providing learning opportunities for middle to high school students and adults interested in career exploration using the zSpace system. zSpace is a technology based in San Jose, California that delivers virtual and augmented reality experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), career and technical education (CTE), and career readiness programs from a computer.
The overall project will cover various topics related to sustainable development, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and career awareness in related fields. The programming aims to enhance participants’ knowledge and understanding of sustainable development and renewable energy sources, educate them on the effects of climate change and potential solutions, while introducing them to renewable energy systems and their importance in energy efficiency.
Additionally, the program will offer adult career awareness and exploration opportunities in fields related to renewable energy and sustainability. This will aid in creating a more skilled workforce that can support the local economy and attract new businesses to the region. By investing in education and training, the program will contribute to the overall economic development and quality of life in West Penn Power and NPRC communities in northwestern and northcentral Pennsylvania.
To lead students, a part-time educator is anticipated to be hired to develop, plan, and execute at least two educational sessions per month in Emporium and Kane. zSpace’s curriculum and technology will be used to integrate hands-on learning and exploration activities for learners of all ages. The College will also work with local school districts and community organizations to bring educational opportunities to their locations to further expand the impact of this technology.
NPRC’s Vice President of Workforce Development Adam Johnson has been spearheading the project on behalf of Northern Pennsylvania Regional College and shared, “This program will empower NPRC to deliver immersive, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and build essential skills in energy-related fields. This initiative strengthens NPRC’s mission and supports community growth by preparing a future-ready workforce.”
Stay tuned as more information is released about these community courses soon.
NPRC acknowledges that the information contained in this content is complete and accurate at time of publication. It is descriptive in nature and the college reserves the right to make any adjustments it deems necessary or desirable. Updates to programs, tuition, or other academic-related items will be reflected in the online College Catalog or on the respective College web pages. Questions regarding accuracy of content may be emailed to marketing@rrcnpa.org.