Johnson College to Host 32nd Annual Golf Tournament

Johnson College will host its 32nd Annual Johnson College Open on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club in Mountain Top, PA.

All proceeds from the annual golf tournament support the Johnson College Presidential Scholarship Fund. Last year’s tournament raised over $50,000 to support the Presidential Scholarship Fund. The scholarships are presented each fall to full-time students demonstrating financial need to finish their educational journey.

To learn more about this event, visit johnson.edu/golf.

Sponsors of this event to date include:

Presenting Sponsor: The Fresh Grocer – Owned and Operated by Gerrity’s

Platinum Sponsor: NET Credit Union and ShopRite

Gold Sponsors: Eastern Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters; Five Star Equipment; Fastenal Company; L.R. Costanzo Company, Inc.; Peoples Security Bank & Trust; PNC Bank; Simplex Homes

Silver Sponsor: American Eagle Outfitters

Cart Sponsor: Toyota of Scranton

Breakfast Sponsor: Boyle Construction  

Lunch Sponsor: Cable Associates

Cocktail Hour Sponsor: Schiff’s Marketplace

Dinner Sponsor: Sordoni Construction Services, Inc.

Beverage Cart Sponsor: Widmer Signs / PA Signs

Golf Gift Sponsor: eCampus.com

Hole-in-One Sponsor: Tasca Ford

Mulligan Sponsor: Topp Business Solutions

Hit & Hold Sponsor: Nunzi’s Advertising

Exclusive Tee Sponsors: Ability Recovery Service, LLC; Action Lift; CHA Consulting; Constantino’s Catering; Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.; I.B.E.W. Local #81; Knowles Associates, LLC; McCarthy Tire; Mesko Glass and Mirror Co., Inc.; MotorWorld; NRG Controls; Postler & Joeckle; Scandale Associated Builders & Engineers, Ltd.; Simona America Industries; Stone Office Equipment, Inc; Topp Business Solutions; Torbik Safe & Lock Inc.; Waste Management;

Presidential Scholarship Sponsors: Ashley Machine & Tool Co.; Candy Frye ’94; Citizens Savings Bank, Czachor Electric; Highland Associates, Ltd.; Mesko Glass and Mirror Co., Inc.; Topp Business Solutions; Torbik Safe & Lock Inc.

Platinum Marketing Sponsor: Condron Sweda Advertising

Advertising Sponsor: Lamar Advertising

Gold Print Sponsor: Sprint Print, Inc.

Photo Caption

Sponsors of the 32nd Annual Johnson College Open met on the College’s Scranton campus in preparation for the event on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club in Mountain Top, PA. Proceeds from this event will support the Johnson College Presidential Scholarship Fund.

Left to right – Front Row: Chester Kaufer, Postler & Joeckle and Marcelo DeSousa, Fastenal. Second Row: Dr. Katie Pittelli, Johnson College, Brian Poveromo, American Eagle Outfitters, and Patrick Rogers, Toyota of Scranton. Third Row: Joe Fasula, The Fresh Grocer – Owned and Operated by Gerrity’s, Debbie Kolsovsky, PNC Bank, and Doug Cook, Johnson College. Fourth Row: Megan Armillay, Condron Sweda Advertising, and David Boniello ’84, Simplex Homes. Fifth Row: Bobby Lynott, Widmer Signs/PA Signs, Kathleen Martin, NET Credit Union, and Matt Locci, Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. Sixth Row: Kristen Wolfe, Sordoni Construction Services, Inc., Melissa Howells, Sordoni Construction Services, Inc., and Chris Stone, Stone Office Equipment.

Johnson College Hosts Debut Event for Bracey Hall

Johnson College celebrated the completion of Bracey Hall during a debut event at its Scranton campus on April 2, 2025.

This new facility has doubled the size of the former Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning (HVAC) laboratory to provide necessary training facilities for the College’s growing Building Trades programs, specifically HVAC Technology and Electrical Construction Technology.

Members of the Johnson College community and the Bracey family gathered to see the newly constructed building that will allow more students to enroll in the College’s hands-on Building Trades programs to meet industry needs throughout the region and beyond.

“We prepare our students for the workforce from the moment they step on campus, ensuring they have the skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of technology and industry,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President and CEO of Johnson College. “This building—Bracey Hall—will help us do just that. It’s vital to our continued growth and success, allowing us to better serve the increasing demand for skilled technicians and technologists.”

Bracey Hall is one of four components of the College’s comprehensive, five-year capital campaign, “Innovation at Work.” It was named after the Bracey family in recognition of their immense support of Johnson College and its building trades programs. The Bracey’s pledged a major gift to the College’s capital campaign, aiding its mission to meet the needs of its students, industry partners, and the community through real-world, hands-on, and industry-driven education.

In addition to the transformational gift from the Bracey family, the College was awarded a $1 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through the City of Scranton. The grant will help the College expand its workforce development programming for high-tech and in-demand fields, including HVAC and Electrical Construction. The HVAC and Electrical Construction Technology programs also benefitted from a $280,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant for campus technology upgrades.

Walter Wood ’11, HVAC Program Director and Chair of the Building Trades Division at Johnson College is elated by the opportunities the new space will provide his students. “The demand for skilled technicians is increasing, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of preparing our students for success in various industries, both locally and globally. This expansion is about more than just space—it’s about creating an environment that fosters innovation, teamwork, and excellence,” he said.

Construction of Bracey Hall began in 2024, following the official reveal of the building, designed by Studio KLP Architects. Under the construction management of L.R. Costanzo Co., Inc., the building took shape quickly with the help of many of Johnson College’s industry partners and alumni.

New One-Year Cybersecurity Analytics & Operations Academic Certificate Program

Johnson College is proud to announce the launch of its one-year Cybersecurity Analytics & Operations academic certificate program, starting with the Fall 2025 semester. This program will give students the critical skills to enter the fast-growing cybersecurity field.

The program focuses on network operations and security, offering hands-on experience in troubleshooting, maintaining, and protecting IT systems. Students will learn to safeguard sensitive data by identifying vulnerabilities, penetration testing, network monitoring, incident response, and disaster recovery.

Graduates will be prepared for careers as network associates, incident handlers, information security analysts, IT auditors, and digital forensic examiners. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, troubleshooting, and effective communication—skills vital for success in cybersecurity.

With cybersecurity job growth projected at 33% from 2023 to 2033, the demand for skilled professionals is stronger than ever.

“We’re excited to launch this program to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity experts,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College. “Graduates will gain the technical expertise and soft skills necessary to thrive in this dynamic industry.”

For more information or to enroll, visit Johnson.edu/cybersecurity or contact the Enrollment Department at 570-702-8856 or enroll@johnson.edu.

Carbondale Area Students Dive into Exciting STEM Education with After-School Program with Johnson College

Carbondale Area School District, in partnership with Johnson College, is offering 7th and 8th-grade students an exciting opportunity to dive into the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) through a dynamic after-school program. This three-day-a-week, five-week program brings real-world STEM concepts to life, helping students gain valuable skills while exploring new career paths.

Under the guidance of Dr. Samantha Masco, a Science and STEM Teacher at Carbondale Area, and instructors from Johnson College, the program offers hands-on lessons in robotics, 3D printing, electrical engineering, and architectural drafting. The curriculum is specifically designed to meet the students’ grade-level needs while encouraging them to think critically and creatively.

“Through the partnership with Johnson College, our students are learning critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills that will carry them through high school and beyond,” said Dr. Samantha Masco. “These 21st-century skills are essential for success, and we are fortunate to live in a community where our students receive such strong support from the school district, the city, and local organizations.”

Tim Frank, Associate Director of Community Engagement at Johnson College, highlighted the broader vision for the program. “Our goal is to help students gain confidence in their STEM abilities and inspire them to pursue higher education in these fields. Whether they continue their education at Johnson College or elsewhere, we’re introducing them to topics and skills they might not have encountered in their traditional school curriculum,” Frank said. “It’s amazing to watch the ‘lightbulb moment’ when a student masters a new skill, and you can see the excitement in their eyes.”

As the program continues, students gain a deeper understanding of STEM concepts and begin to see how these skills can be applied to real-world challenges. The hands-on nature of the program also better prepares students to consider potential careers in high-demand industries, both locally and globally.

Mayor Michele Bannon of the City of Carbondale also expressed her excitement about the program. “I love this program simply because it’s a collaboration between two places close to my heart—Carbondale Area School District and Johnson College. Through its hands-on approach, students can dive right in, explore what they enjoy, and gain skills that will impact their futures. These could even lead to future opportunities at local businesses like Pleasant Mount Welding, Hendrick, and Gentex, helping students make a meaningful connection to their community.”

About Carbondale Area School District

The Carbondale Area School District provides students with a safe learning environment that promotes academic excellence for all learners. Students will have the opportunity to work in an engaging and academically stimulating environment. Teachers will be provided with the necessary resources to provide effective instruction, professional collaboration, and ongoing learning through professional development opportunities. The district will maintain communication and essential partnerships with parents and community members to strive to provide the best educational opportunities for our students.

About Johnson College

Johnson College provides real-world, hands-on learning in a supportive environment and prepares graduates to enter into or advance in their in-demand careers. Johnson College was founded in 1912 and is the region’s only technical college, offering 15 associate degrees, four academic certificates, and over 30 continuing education programs. A low student-to-instructor ratio supports an emphasis on hands-on learning. Located in Scranton on a 44-acre campus with a satellite campus serving the greater Hazleton area, the College is an accredited, private, non-profit, co-educational institution with a strong tradition of working with regional businesses and industries to ensure a skilled and qualified workforce. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.

College Sees 32% Enrollment Increase Year-over-Year, 6th Consecutive Year of Record Enrollment to Address Industry’s Demand for Skilled Workforce

Johnson College proudly announces a remarkable milestone as it experiences its sixth consecutive year of record enrollment, with overall student numbers surging by an impressive 32% year over year. This unprecedented growth underscores the increasing interest and value in the College’s hands-on, industry-immersed, career-focused education across all its 18 programs.

“A sixth consecutive year of record enrollment is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, the quality of our programs, and the increasing recognition of the value of a Johnson College hands-on, technical education.” Said Bill Burke, Vice President of Enrollment and Student Affairs at Johnson College, “The College’s growth at both of its campuses is not only a sign of its success but also a promising indicator of the future of technical education and its role in shaping our future skilled workforce.”

Johnson College offers a range of programs designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s industries. With state-of-the-art classrooms and labs and strong industry partnerships, students have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for real-world experience. The College’s focus on technical education ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also adept at applying their skills to help build strong regional and national industries.

“We’re excited to welcome such a diverse and talented group of students into all our programs,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College. “As industry demands continue to evolve, Johnson College will continue to answer the call for our highly skilled technicians and technologists. With the growth of high-demand technical careers showing no signs of slowing, we will continue to work with our employer partners to ensure our students are equipped for career success and ready to meet the future head-on.”

The College’s commitment to its students and industry partners is evident in these exceptional enrollment increases. Programs are preparing students for industries experiencing faster-than-average national 10-year growth trends, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Notably, these include Veterinary Nursing (21% increase), Medical Equipment Repair (13% increase), and HVAC and Electrical Construction (6% increase) industries. Some Johnson College enrollment highlights include:

  • Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology: Enrollment has risen by 10% from the previous year, reflecting the growing need for skilled professionals in this essential field.
  • Electrical Construction Technology: This program has seen a 35% increase, highlighting the burgeoning demand for highly trained residential and commercial electricians, and industrial engineering technicians.
  • Architectural Drafting and Design Technology: Enrollment has surged by 57%, marking one of the most significant growth areas driven by the expanding architectural and design industry.
  • Aviation Technology: In its second year, this program has experienced a 32% increase in enrollment, demonstrating the clear demand for well-trained aviation technicians in an industry facing a shrinking workforce.
  • Biomedical Equipment Technology: The 43% rise in enrollment reflects the heightened interest in the Healthcare Technology Management industry.
  • Electronic Engineering Technology: This program’s 17% growth demonstrates ongoing enthusiasm for careers in electronic instrumentation and related fields.
  • Veterinary Nursing: A 56% increase in enrollment highlights the growing passion for animal care and veterinary sciences.
  • Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology: Enrollment has risen by 28%, signaling continued robust interest in skilled trades and manufacturing.

Additionally, Johnson College has seen a notable increase year-to-year in enrollment from various age groups:

  • Directly from high school: 11%
  • Ages 19-21: 35%
  • Ages 22+: 23%
  • Ages 25+: 13%

Johnson College is excited to welcome a diverse group of students this academic year and looks forward to continuing its commitment to being the leader in hands-on, industry-focused education in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Cruise Night on Campus with Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc

Cruise Night on Campus, in partnership with the Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club, Inc., will take place Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Johnson College’s Scranton campus from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. All unique, rare, custom, hot rod, and collector vehicles can start rolling in at 3:00 p.m. to be lined up on the campus’s front lawn. Spectator admission is free, and there is no vehicle entry fee.

Enjoy a family-friendly evening with cars, music, food, a 50/50 raffle, and giveaways! All proceeds benefit Johnson College. 

For more details, contact Johnson College’s Manager of Fundraising Events, Patty DeScipio, at pdescipio@johnson.edu or 570-702-8860.

Johnson College Receives $2,000 Contribution for the Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship

Members of the Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association recently presented a $2,000 contribution to Johnson College to support the annual Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded to two students in the Automotive Technology Program for the 2024-2025 academic year. 

The Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association was established in 1975 and has been funding the scholarship at Johnson College since 2009. The club raises funds through Cruise Nights held at the Viewmont Mall parking lot throughout the year.

Pictured from left to right: John Gall, Board Member, Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association; Chip Bell, President, Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association; Jim Williams ’00, Automotive Technology Program Director, Johnson College; John Coleman, ’80, Board Member, Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association; Matt Salvia, Secretary, Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association; and Tom Lello, Treasurer, Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association.

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to Celebrate the Grand Opening of ‘Johnson College at the CAN DO Training Center’

In a joint celebration held today, September 27, CAN DO and Johnson College held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the ‘Johnson College at the CAN DO Training Center’. This celebration comes after the two institutions announced their partnership to bring a technical school to the Greater Hazleton Area earlier this year.

The ‘Johnson College at the CAN DO Training Center’ ribbon cutting event showcased the expansive 20,000 sq. ft. facility – which was once home to the former McCann School of Business and Technology. Guests were invited to tour the new school, including classrooms, lab spaces, and the campus resource center that is open to all students. Capriotti’s Catering and Little Treats and Cakes by Janna catered the event with light lunch fare and desserts.

Dr. Katie Pittelli, President and CEO of Johnson College, and Joseph Lettiere, President and CEO of CAN DO, were both present and spoke about how this partnership is a monumental achievement for the Greater Hazleton Area, its residences, and its businesses.

Dr. Katie Pittelli spoke of the importance of the College’s industry partners throughout her remarks. “I like to say that we are founded and grounded in industry”, she mentioned. “The industry partnerships we’ve fostered here in the Greater Hazleton region helped us identify the need for skilled technicians and technologists in the area and the need for us to create unique, hands-on, industry-driven experiences for students who want to work within those industries.”

During his remarks, CAN DO President and CEO, Joseph Lettiere, stated, “CAN DO’s partnership with Johnson College is monumental for the Greater Hazleton Area and its residents as a whole. Through the various programs available on this campus, our community will have direct access to the necessary training and education our industries are in need of…these programs truly move the needle for members of our community by providing industrial education that will ultimately lead to family- and life-sustaining careers.” 

Other key members of this partnership and esteemed dignitaries also in attendance included Charles Burkhardt, Chair of the CAN DO Board of Directors, Pat Dietz, Chair of the Johnson College Board of Directors, Pennsylvania State Senator David Argall, representing Pennsylvania’s 29th Senatorial District, and members from both CAN DO and Johnson College’s Board of Directors.

With its strategic positioning inside of the Humboldt Industrial Park, Johnson College’s Hazleton campus will provide students with advantageous proximity to nearly 70 industries currently employing more than 11,000 individuals. The campus is also now a central education hub for communities within lower Luzerne and surrounding counties.

While classes officially began on August 28, the new school offers a robust curriculum aimed to cater to the diverse academic and industry needs of the Greater Hazleton Area community. Notable program offerings include a 2-Year Associate Degree in Applied Science for Electrical Construction Technology and 1-Year Academic Certificate programs in Welding Technology, Industrial Technology, and Building and Property Maintenance. Additionally, the school offers continuing education certificate courses in Medical Assistant, Computer Support, and Security Specialist, as well as Class A CDL Driver Training.

For more information about these upcoming programs, visit johnson.edu/Hazleton.