Indiana, PA – Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe highlighted the Shapiro Administration’s investments in career and technical education (CTE) at Indiana County Technology Center (ICTC), seeing firsthand how students today are learning skills for tomorrow’s world—from flying drones to wiring electrical circuits, welding, working with patients in a healthcare setting, and more.
“Career and technical education programs, whether in a Comprehensive CTC, Occupational CTC, school district, or elsewhere, helps students explore potential career paths, giving them hands-on experience, applicable skills, and, in many cases, industry credentials before even graduating high school” said Acting Secretary Rowe. “It can lead to higher earning potential, increased job satisfaction, and greater opportunities for career advancement. By investing in CTE in Pennsylvania, we are equipping students with valuable skills that can be used throughout their lives, promoting lifelong learning and adaptability, and creating pathways to further education, apprenticeships, and advanced training.”
To ensure every Pennsylvania student has the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunities to succeed, the Shapiro Administration has increased funding for CTE and apprenticeships across Pennsylvania by nearly $65 million since taking office – a more than 50 percent increase. In his 2025-26 proposed budget, Governor Shapiro included an additional increase of $5.5 million for CTE programs.
ICTC recently received a $119,960 supplemental equipment grant from the Shapiro Administration to purchase a Sharp 1340VS Engine Lathe in the Manufacturing program, a mechanical hospital bed for the Health Occupations program, and an 8-Mark III PWR Tilt Vertical Band Saw for the Construction program.
The Indiana County Technology Center, an Occupational CTC located in Indiana County, offers a variety of career and technical programs to 9th through 12th grade students from six sending school districts, including: Homer-Center, Indiana Area, Marion Center, Penns Manor, Purchase Line, River Valley, and United. Students receive real-world, hands-on learning that prepares them for careers in manufacturing, health care, transportation, and more. ICTC also offers adult education courses in several different career paths, helping more Pennsylvanians get ahead and pursue family-sustaining, highly successful careers.
“ICTC is an amazing place where individuals can learn skills to develop their futures. I went from knowing nothing to learning all that I need to get a job. I have developed my future and have a successful life ahead of me because of tech,” said second-year student Parker Sleppy.
“I’ve taken away many skills and certifications from ICTC. ICTC has greatly prepared me for my future career not only providing book knowledge but also practical knowledge,” said third-year student Landon Stuchel. “The opportunities presented such as Teens Teach Tech, and the housing project allowed me to apply the skills that I have learned. I will leave with knowledge of what I’ve learned as well as experience applying it for many years to come.”
Career and technical education provides students with practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to specific, in-demand careers – increasing their employability and preparing them for the future. It also gives students the opportunity to explore different career paths while still in high school, helping them make informed decisions about their future education and goals, whether it’s pursuing postsecondary education, joining the military, or entering directly into the workforce.
There are more than 200 school districts, charter schools, and career and technical centers across the Commonwealth offering nearly 2,000 PDE-approved CTE programs providing education and training to thousands of students.