Support Our Students,
A Legacy of Purpose and Innovation
Founded in 1912 by Orlando S. Johnson, a prominent Scranton coal magnate, Johnson College began with a clear mission: “to teach young men and women useful arts and trades that may enable them to make an honorable living and become contributing members of society.” A 65‑acre estate in Scranton, known as the William H. Richmond estate, was chosen as the site, and from day one, the school welcomed students aged 14 and up with at least eight years of prior education.
A steady evolution followed:
- 1964–1968: Transitioned into a post‑secondary institution; renamed Johnson School of Technology in 1966; incorporated as a nonprofit; secured a state license in 1968.
- 1974–1979: Authorized to confer the Associate in Specialized Technology degree and earned NATTS accreditation.
- 1985–1987: Became Johnson Technical Institute; degree programs streamlined to two years.
Embracing Collegiate Status & Accreditation
In response to mounting technological advances, a comprehensive self-study led to state approval as a two-year college in 1997, followed by a name change to Johnson College in 2001. The College awarded its first Associate in Applied Science and Associate in Science degrees in 1998.
By 2021, Johnson achieved full institutional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, opening doors to greater financial aid options, smoother credit transfers, and expanded program and funding opportunities.
Expanding Reach and Facilities
- 1994–2009: Introduced Veterinary Technology (with AVMA accreditation by 2000), Electrical Construction Technology, Diesel Truck Technology, HVAC, and opened an on‑campus Animal Care Center.
- 2021: Launched the Mechatronics Technology program, equipping students for Industry 4.0.
- 2023: Opened the College’s first-ever satellite campus at the CAN DO Training Center in Hazle Township, PA, offering Electrical, Welding, Industrial Technology, Building & Property Maintenance, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Class A CDL certificate courses.
- 2023: Debuted a two-year Aviation Technology program at Wilkes‑Barre Scranton International Airport, preparing students for FAA licensure.
- 2024: Unveiled Ideal Saldi Hall on the Scranton campus, a 19,000 sq. ft facility housing labs, classrooms, a high-tech conference room, and offices, made possible by a landmark $1 million gift from alum Ideal T. Saldi (‘49) and his wife, Frances.
- 2025: Opened Bracy Hall, which doubled the size of the former HVAC laboratory to provide necessary training facilities on the Scranton campus for the College’s growing Building Trades programs, specifically HVAC and Electrical Construction Technology. Rolled out a one-year Cybersecurity Analytics & Operations certificate, offering hands-on experience in network security, incident response, and disaster recovery.
A Student-Centered, Industry‑Driven Future
Today, more than 600 students are engaged in hands-on learning through 14 associate degree and 5 certificate programs. In addition, Johnson College’s WAVE (Workforce Advancement & Value Added Education) team offers over 30 continuing education courses, supporting lifelong learning, skill development, career advancement, and economic mobility.
For degree programs, students spend 67% of their time in tech-focused coursework, supplemented by general education and enriched through internships, dual enrollment, and practicum partnerships with local industry.
Guided by Program Advisory Committees comprising regional business and community leaders, the College continually evaluates and updates its curricula to align with evolving technologies and workforce demands. Since its founding, Johnson College has honored Orlando S. Johnson’s vision by preparing dedicated professionals ready to thrive in business and industry.
Johnson College stands at the forefront of technological transformation, empowering our students and community with hands-on, industry-driven education that adapts and grows alongside the ever-changing demands of our world.