Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has reached a significant milestone in its work to expand access to high-demand careers. The College’s six-month Electro-Mechanical and Metals Fabrication and Welding Technology training programs have been approved as State Registered Pre-Apprenticeships by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Apprenticeship and Training Office. Both programs are offered through the College’s Workforce and Economic Development Center.
State registration formally connects Thaddeus Stevens College’s hands-on technical training to Pennsylvania’s registered apprenticeship system, strengthening clear pathways from education to employment. The designation recognizes the rigor of the College’s training model while reinforcing its role as an architect of opportunity for individuals seeking practical, career-focused education.
As registered pre-apprenticeships, these programs prepare students for direct entry into registered apprenticeships and skilled employment across the Commonwealth. Participants gain foundational technical skills, safety training, and workplace readiness aligned with state-approved apprenticeship standards, helping shorten the path to journeyworker status and long-term career advancement.
The approval also strengthens the College’s partnerships with employers and apprenticeship sponsors. By aligning curriculum with current industry tools and practices, the programs support strong job placement outcomes and help address workforce shortages in manufacturing and skilled trades.
Local businesses benefit from access to a job-ready talent pipeline, reducing recruitment and training costs while supporting long-term workforce sustainability. Students benefit from industry-recognized credentials, supportive services, and clear next steps into high-demand careers that support families and communities.
The College acknowledges The Manufacturers’ Association for its sponsorship and alignment of the programs, reflecting a shared commitment to workforce development and economic vitality.
Through initiatives like State Registered Pre-Apprenticeships, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology continues to transform futures through accessible, hands-on education that delivers real-world results for students, employers, and the broader community.