In the heart of Northeast Pennsylvania, a quiet revolution is underway, driven by the surging demand for skilled trades in the building, electronic, and technology sectors. These jobs, often overlooked in favor of traditional four-year degrees, are proving to be both lucrative and accessible, offering a pathway to steady wages without the burden of crippling student debt. This shift is not just about economic opportunity; it’s about redefining what it means to build a sustainable future.
The region’s aging infrastructure and retiring workforce are creating a unique landscape where the need for skilled labor is more pressing than ever. Susan Spry, associate vice president of academic affairs at Luzerne County Community College, underscores this point, noting that the demand for tradespeople is not just about new construction but also about maintaining the existing housing stock. “Our housing stock is fairly old in our region, and a lot of people are needing repairs as well,” she said. “Sometimes we think of trades as people building things and new construction, but all of us trying to maintain our homes. We need people in those trades.”
This demand is fueling a resurgence in career and technical education (CTE) programs, apprenticeships, and post-secondary technical training. Institutions like Johnson College are at the forefront of this movement, offering programs that directly align with industry needs. Greg Race, the manager of career services at Johnson College, highlights the college’s focus on practical, job-ready skills. “When people think of Johnson College, they think of carpenters, electricians, automotive, HVAC,” he said. The college’s satellite campus in Hazleton further extends its reach, providing more students with access to these critical programs.
The appeal of these programs lies in their immediate return on investment. As Spry points out, “There’s almost an immediate return on investment on those training dollars with the education a person might get at a community college or other technical schools.” Moreover, these jobs are inherently local, reducing the risk of outsourcing and ensuring that the skills developed stay within the community.
The apprenticeship model, in particular, is gaining traction. At Sheet Metal Workers Local 44 in Wilkes-Barre, apprentices like Matthew Faust and Declan Munley are learning the intricacies of HVAC ductwork and sheet metal fabrication. These programs offer hands-on training and a steady income, making them an attractive alternative to traditional education paths. Warren Faust, a member of the Wilkes-Barre Area School Board and a strong advocate for apprenticeships, emphasizes their value. “Employers pay apprentices during the training process, which makes apprenticeships unlike traditional postsecondary education programs that prepare students for careers,” he said.
The state government is also playing a crucial role in supporting these initiatives. Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has significantly increased funding for vocational training, career and technical education, and apprenticeships. Since taking office in 2023, the state has allocated nearly $65 million to these areas, underscoring the importance of skilled trades in the region’s economic future.
This focus on technical education and apprenticeships is not just about filling immediate job vacancies; it’s about building a sustainable workforce for the future. As the construction industry increasingly integrates green technologies and sustainable practices, the need for skilled tradespeople who can work with these new materials and methods will only grow. Programs that emphasize robotics, 3D printing, and advanced manufacturing technologies, such as Johnson College’s mechatronics and aviation technology programs, are positioning students to be at the forefront of this green revolution.
The impact of this shift is already being felt in the region. High school students at the Wilkes-Barre Area Career and Technical Center are flocking to welding programs, and community colleges are struggling to keep up with the demand. This enthusiasm is a testament to the changing perceptions of what constitutes a valuable career path. As more students and workers recognize the benefits of these trades—from financial stability to job security—they are choosing to invest in their futures through technical education and apprenticeships.
The construction industry is at a crossroads, and Northeast Pennsylvania is leading the way in showing how a focus on sustainability and skilled trades can drive economic growth and environmental stewardship. By investing in the people who build our future, we are not just creating jobs; we are building a more resilient, sustainable world. This is more than a trend; it’s a transformation that is reshaping the very fabric of our communities and our planet.
