UPMC and Pennsylvania College of Technology are deepening their longstanding partnership with a shared vision: to make northcentral Pennsylvania a destination for world-class education, cutting-edge health care and a thriving workforce.

As part of this commitment, UPMC is contributing $500,000 to support the renovation of the Carl Building Technologies Center on Penn College’s main campus. In recognition of this investment, the new entrance to the facility will be named the UPMC Annex — a gateway to opportunity for the next generation of skilled professionals.

“This is more than a financial contribution — it’s a strategic investment in the people and potential of our region,” said Patti Jackson-Gehris, market president, UPMC North Central Pa. “UPMC relies on a diverse and highly skilled workforce, from clinical staff to the tradespeople who build and maintain our facilities. Many of them are Penn College graduates. By supporting this program, we’re helping to ensure that students have access to the tools, training and pathways they need to build meaningful careers right here at home.”

The UPMC Annex will feature an industry showroom highlighting emerging technologies and will serve as a hub for student presentations, employer recruitment and community events.

It’s designed to inspire innovation and foster connections between students and industry leaders.

“UPMC is a steadfast corporate partner with Penn College. They provide ongoing opportunities and support for students in our School of Nursing & Health Sciences and heavily recruit students from our vast portfolio of engineering technology programs, including all construction-related fields. We are grateful for their loyal support and look forward to the UPMC name on the new annex entrance,” said Loni N. Kline, senior vice president for college relations.

Renovations to the Carl Building Technologies Center will enhance the learning experience for more than 1,000 students by expanding access to state-of-the-art labs and hands-on training in high-demand fields.

“As a Penn College alum and someone who works closely with skilled tradespeople, I see firsthand how this partnership is shaping the future,” said Matthew Buck, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology in 2020 and serves as project director for UPMC North Central Pa. “This collaboration is about building a pipeline of talent that strengthens our region. It’s about creating a place where students come to learn, stay to work and thrive for a lifetime. Like we do with many clinical programs, we’re working together to provide educational opportunities in the trades for students through internships, apprenticeships, hosting projects and providing a direct pathway to a career with our organization. It’s a win for Penn College, a win for UPMC and a win for the community.”

UPMC is a Penn College Corporate Tomorrow Maker and a member of the Millionaires Society ($1,000,000+) on the college’s Donor Wall.

A $2 million U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration grant is helping to fund renovations to the Carl Building Technologies Center and construction of a Clean Energy House on the college’s main campus. The college is matching the $2 million EDA grant for a $4 million total budget.

Construction is expected to start this fall, beginning with the Clean Energy House.

For more about giving opportunities at Penn College, visit www.pct.edu/give, email collegerelations@pct.edu or call 570-320-8020.