Transforming Beaver County: A $1.7M Grant Fuels Tech Training Revolution

New Tech Opportunities in Southwestern Pennsylvania

Emerging tech opportunities are reshaping Southwestern Pennsylvania, prompting local colleges to prepare students for in-demand roles.

Thanks to a $1.7 million grant from the Build Back Better (BBB) Challenge Grant, the Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) is enhancing its STEM programs and hiring new leaders to connect local youth with tech opportunities.

Affordable Education in Tech

CCBC is now offering students new ways to learn essential skills in fields like cybersecurity and robotics. As Kristi Farrow, lead faculty for CCBC’s cybersecurity program, points out, these opportunities would otherwise be out of reach for many locals.

Tom Peyton, a CCBC professor, emphasizes the need to expose students to modern economy jobs beyond traditional industries.

The financial burden of higher education can be overwhelming, especially when job prospects are uncertain. In contrast, CCBC offers a 12-credit semester at about $3,000, significantly lower than the average college tuition in Pennsylvania, which ranges from $16,000 to $47,000 per year.

Real-Life Impact: Student Stories

Isaiah Zahn, a student studying cybersecurity, initially pursued an English literature degree at a private university but returned to CCBC for its affordability and the opportunity to positively impact his community. With the BBB funds, CCBC has introduced a penetration testing course to its cybersecurity program, equipping students with skills to counter cyberattacks.

Gabrielle Gretch, who switched from nursing to cybersecurity, appreciates the affordability of CCBC, which costs her just $3,500 per semester. She is also working to establish a Women in Cybersecurity chapter at the college.

Expanding Opportunities for Youth

CCBC is also expanding its STEM Academy, a dual enrollment program enabling high school students to earn up to 28 college credits before graduation. The program will introduce a cybersecurity track this fall, further facilitating early career jumps into tech.

The BBB funding has allowed CCBC to purchase new equipment, incorporate artificial intelligence into programs, add a Python coding course, and provide STEM scholarships for economically disadvantaged minorities.

Collaboration for Real-World Success

In partnership with the New Economy Collaborative (NEC), CCBC aims to help students secure real-world jobs in emerging industries. This initiative is part of NEC’s Project 3, which seeks to upskill the workforce and expand career pathways in Southwestern Pennsylvania.