Clarion University—Venango Campus Signs Agreement with Triangle Tech

Clarion University of Pennsylvania has signed an agreement with The Triangle Tech Group that will allow students to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Technology degree from Clarion University with a technical concentration provided through Triangle Tech.

"We at Triangle Tech are proud to be a part of this program at Clarion University's Venango Campus. We will partner with the university to deliver high-quality workforce education that is gravely needed in the region. Students will surely benefit from this alliance and we thank Dr. Reber and his colleagues for the opportunity to participate," said Timothy J. McMahon, President of Triangle Tech.

The Triangle Tech concentrations add the possibility of career preparation in computer-aided drafting & design (CADD); refrigeration, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; carpentry and construction; maintenance electricity and construction technology; welding and fabrication technology, and a sequence of technology subjects tailored for the individual student.

"My colleagues and I are delighted to announce this new opportunity for workforce development in our region," said Dr. Christopher M. Reber, executive dean of the Venango Campus. "Triangle Tech is the sixth partner in our applied technology program, which continues to grow dramatically and now offers 25 industrial concentrations. We are grateful for the support of the community, and want to especially thank Representative Fred McIlhattan for his help in making this and other partnerships a reality."

McIlhattan said, "I am pleased to have played a major role in developing this private/public partnership between Clarion University and the Triangle Tech Group. This partnership will support my initiative to develop post-secondary technical education for northwestern Pennsylvania through Clarion University.

"Clarion University's Department of Applied Technology is now positioned to instruct people in our region in the skilled trades and technical skills and technology necessary to grow and expand our economy and provide for good family- sustaining jobs."

Launched in 2003 in response to a critical need for specialized technical education in the region and beyond, the Department of Applied Technology utilizes a creative partnership approach designed to prepare students for a career path leading to a wide range of opportunities and leadership positions.

Under this unique model, students complete general education and business courses at Clarion University-Venango Campus and the technical component of the degree through licensed, certified, accredited and/or otherwise approved technical education providers.

The Department of Applied Technology is headed by Victor W. Bowser, a seasoned professional with years of experience in senior managemnet positions. Bowser has developed curricula and taught at several colleges, including a stint at Clarion University in the 1980's.

"When it comes to attending their technical classes, students will find that they are working in smaller, personal learning communities," said Professor Bowser. "The experienced craftsmen have a mentor's flair and students will extract value from every session."

The Triangle Tech Group, founded in Pittsburgh in 1944, is a well-established, multipurpose technical and business institution with campuses in Pittsburgh, Erie, Greensburg, DuBois, and Sunbury, Pennsylvania. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology, is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools, and is authorized to award the Associate in Specialized Technology Degree by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Clarion University—Venango Campus, located in Oil City, PA, is the oldest regional campus in Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education. The campus provides high-quality educational programs and personalized services to help students succeed. Students can earn an associate degree, a bachelor's or master's degree in select areas, obtain a one-year certificate or participate in a variety of professional development and personal enrichment courses. The campus is home to Clarion University's School of Nursing and Allied Health and its Department of Applied Technology. Clarion University - Venango Campus is committed to serving the needs of the community.