Penn State Behrend: Office of Community and Workforce Programs

09/21/2026

This is a pretty exciting one for our team! 👏

The Penn State University Board of Trustees has approved plans for the new $19.2 million Center for Manufacturing Competitiveness at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College.

Workforce development, industry partnerships and manufacturing are a BIG part of what we do — so seeing this project move forward is especially exciting for our team.

The new 31,300-square-foot facility will create even more opportunities to connect industry with Penn State Behrend through workforce training, applied research and hands-on manufacturing expertise.

And with our own Amy (Hitchings) Bridger playing a key role in making this vision a reality, this is a big moment for Penn State Behrend, our industry partners and the future of manufacturing in our region!

The Penn State Board of Trustees on Sept. 18 approved the final plans for construction of the Center for Manufacturing Competitiveness at Penn State Behrend, advancing a project that will strengthen the Erie region’s metal-casting industry, expand workforce training and provide access to specializ...

09/04/2026

Happy Labor Day!

Labor Day is an opportunity to recognize the hard work, dedication, and talent of individuals across every industry.

At Community and Workforce Programs, we’re proud to play a role in supporting our region’s workforce through continued learning, professional development, and opportunities to build new skills.

Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!

08/26/2026

Meet your next great hire at Penn State Behrend!

The Penn State College Career and Internship Fair is coming up on Thursday, September 24, bringing more than 1,400 candidates from Behrend and other area colleges and universities together with employers looking for their next great addition.

Whether you’re recruiting for full-time positions, internships, co-ops, part-time roles, or summer opportunities, this is your chance to meet talented candidates face-to-face, promote your organization, and build your future workforce.

Have questions or want to learn more? Contact Penn State Behrend Services at [email protected].

08/14/2026

Proud to be part of Erie’s continued growth and the exciting future ahead for our region.

Take a look at how Penn State Behrend is helping move Erie forward!

08/10/2026

A great opportunity to learn more about Penn State Behrend’s new five-year strategic plan and the vision guiding the college forward.

Check out the latest episode of Behrend Talks to hear more about what’s ahead!

On the new episode of the “Behrend Talks” podcast, Chancellor Ralph Ford talks with Greg Filbeck and Alicyn Rhoades about the college’s new five-year strategic plan. Listen at behrendtalks.buzzsprout.com

08/10/2026

Looking to strengthen your project management skills and take the next step in your career?

Penn State Behrend’s Project Management Certificate Program provides practical, real-world skills you can apply immediately in the workplace—from project planning and scheduling to cost and risk management.

The program is 100% remote, with live instruction via Zoom and Canvas, making it easier to build your skills while balancing your work and other commitments.

Participants can also earn 21 PDUs per course and 84 PDUs upon completion of the full program, while building toward the educational requirements for the PMP® credential.

📅 Interested in learning more? Join us for an upcoming information session!

Learn more: behrend.psu.edu/cwp

08/03/2026

Six Sigma is a valuable methodology and skillset that equips professionals with the tools to solve problems, improve processes, and drive results.

For employers, it can strengthen teams, increase efficiency, and support a culture of continuous improvement. Belt holders gain practical skills they can apply right away, and employers are seeing the impact firsthand:

"My employees are loving the training. The instructor's thoughtful, masterful questioning and always positive feedback linked with contextual examples are the perfect pedagogical combination. I am seeing my team connect the dots and apply what they are learning."

Whether you're looking to enhance your own skills or explore workforce development opportunities for your team, join one of our upcoming Six Sigma information sessions to learn how our programs can help drive professional and organizational success.

🗓️ Upcoming Information Sessions:
· August 5
· August 11
· August 27

Register at behrend.psu.edu/cwp or email Ryan Parker, [email protected].

06/22/2026

We’re excited to announce upcoming Information Sessions for our Project Management Certificate and Six Sigma Black Belt Certification programs at Penn State Behrend!

If you’re looking to advance your career, strengthen your leadership skills, or gain in-demand process improvement expertise, these sessions are a great first step to learn what each program offers and how they can support your professional goals.

During the sessions, you’ll:
-Explore course content and certification pathways
-Learn how these programs align with industry needs
-Get details on schedules, format, and enrollment
-Have the opportunity to ask questions directly

Whether you’re looking to grow within your current role or prepare for new opportunities, these certifications are designed to help you take that next step with confidence.

Open to professionals across all industries!

To learn more or register, visit behrend.psu.edu/cwp or email Ryan Parker at [email protected].

05/22/2026

This Memorial Day, we remember and honor all who have served in the military. We are grateful for their courage, dedication, and service. Have a safe Memorial Day weekend as we take time to reflect and remember.

05/20/2026

There’s still time to register for these upcoming online courses!

Plastic Injection Mold Design Basics
June 1–4 and August 10–13
Live via Zoom | 8:00 a.m.–noon
Fee: $1,800

Injection-Molded Part Design Principles
June 8–10 and August 12–14
Live via Zoom | 8:00 a.m.–noon
Fee: $1,350

Upgrade your skills, sharpen your expertise, and learn directly from industry professionals—all without leaving your workspace.

Website: behrend.psu.edu/plastics
Email: [email protected]