Celebrate with Us! – Limited Edition Apparel For Sale

In case you haven’t heard, Johnson College has been recognized by Forbes!

Johnson College has joined the rankings of premiere technical education by being ranked #10 on Forbes Top 25 Two-Year Trade Schools. Of 700 schools considered, Johnson College was recognized as one of the most prominent when it comes to “high-earning alumni, stand-out graduation and retention rates, and respectable debt repayment scores,” according to Forbes. The list of schools highlights industry that seeks a skilled workforce, education that is affordable and accessible. The list was based on IPEDS, College Score Card, and Pay Scale data. The methodology of the list is guided by the question, “What should a high school senior be looking for in higher education?” and according to Forbes, it is “a gateway to a great career.”

For more information about the designation, please click here.

To celebrate this great occasion, we are inviting students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community friends to purchase limited edition apparel! To purchase, please click the image below!

 

Logistics Grad Goes Above and Beyond at Neiman Marcus Group

Like so many people, Austin Caramanno, ’17, did not end up where he thought he would when he started his college career. The Mid-Valley High school graduate and Olyphant native originally attended a small college just outside of Philadelphia and planned on getting his degree in Graphic Design. However, the promise of hard work with only a slight chance of finding success in his career was not enough to satisfy him. “I would work hard and might get somewhere, but, for me, it was go big or go home. So, I decided it was time to go back home.”

While back home, he decided to do some research on opportunities in the trades. “I knew I was looking for something that would work for me in the future but would be fun to learn in the process,” he says. “I wanted to do something completely new and Logistics kept popping up as something in the trades for those who were less inclined to do something like fixing cars.” The option of majoring in logistics and supply chain management and the culture at Johnson College was just what Austin was looking for. “It didn’t click [at his previous school], but everything at Johnson felt natural. Everyone was so personable.”

Caramanno graduated from Johnson College in 2017 with a degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. He started working at the Neiman Marcus Distribution Center in Pittston in 2015 as a shipping assistant and was quickly promoted to Human Resources Assistant in 2016. By November 2017, he was promoted to his current position of Shipping Supervisor where he now manages those he used to work with as a Shipping Assistant. Caramanno was also a recipient of the Neiman Marcus Group Best award in 2017 because he consistently went above and beyond in his work and he displayed the company’s core values of being “memorable, trustworthy, and bold.”

As a Shipping Supervisor, in addition to making sure that merchandise gets to the stores in a timely fashion and managing nine other employees, Austin now oversees security protocols and the quality of the high end merchandise that goes into Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman stores across the country.  His job has given him the opportunity to handle dresses that can cost more than $6,000 and other merchandise being sent to celebrities in the fashion and music industries. All of this is a far cry from what he thought he would be doing while working in graphic design.

He credits much of his success in his position to the leadership skills and professionalism he learned while at Johnson College. “It’s funny because students complained all the time about writing papers but, I have to submit a ‘Goals and Objectives’ report often so, learning those skills really helps,” he says. “The technical skills you learn and your demeanor will help you move past just being an entry level employee. Things like group projects, which seem silly at the time, help you because when working- you don’t get to pick your group and you have to make do.”

Austin also gives credit to his instructors who made sure he not only learned the theory behind business management but, took the time to make sure he truly understood the real world application. “[The instructors] were very helpful because they were people directly from the field.  A book tells you one thing but you have to adapt to real life situations. They helped you learn that,” Austin recalled. He also mentioned that Laura Little, the Business Management Department Chair, pushed him to be the best that he could be- “She put in the time to give me the best education she could, so I wanted to take the time to be good at what I was doing.”

When asked what advice he would give current Johnson College students, he says “Things don’t come to you. You have to go after them. An opportunity may fall into your lap but, it’s still up to you to take it.” He emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities just like the one he seized at Johnson College and the ones he’s had at Neiman Marcus.

For more information on our Logistics & Supply Chain Management degree, please click here.

Grant Awarded from Appalachian Regional Commission

George Kelly, NEPA Alliance Board Member; Katie Leonard, President & CEO of Johnson College; Kurt Bauman, NEPA Alliance VP of Community & Economic Development; Congressman Matt Cartwright; Paul Macknosky, PA Department of Community and Economic Development; State Representative Marty Flynn; Jeffrey Box, NEPA Alliance President & CEO; Tracey Pratt, Johnson College Manager of Development, and Larry West, Regional Director for Senator John Blake.

 

On October 18th,  the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA) presented Johnson College with a $76,974 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant. NEPA, in coordination with Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, assisted Johnson College in preparation of the grant and recommended the project to ARC for approval. The goal of this project is to update the technical training systems that Johnson College students utilize in obtaining an educational experience that reflects the latest developments in materials, tools, machinery, equipment, methods and techniques; ultimately allowing for quicker response to industry labor needs.  The $76,974 grant, combined with $76,974 in matching funds from Johnson College, will be used to purchase 12 different “Training Systems” which guarantee the students practical experience with high-technology tools and resources that employers expect them to show proficient use of during their first professional positions in industry.  It will offset the cost of educational equipment in support of Advanced Manufacturing, Electronic Engineering, Automotive, Diesel, Electrical Construction & Maintenance, and Welding Technology programs, creating an outstanding learning experience for students.

Being ranked #10 on Forbes “Top 25 Two-Year Trade Schools: Colleges That Can Solve The Skills Gap,” this grant opportunity helps ensure Johnson College students have the opportunity to master the skills needed to enter high priority occupations in the ARC region in a way that meets the most current industry standards and provides a family sustaining wage. Congressman Matt Cartwright commended Johnson College on its recent Forbes ranking by mentioning how the institution is contributing to a large issue that he discusses often with business owners in Pennsylvania, “not enough skilled workers.”

President Katie Leonard commented, “Not only has the economy become increasingly dependent on STEM jobs, but the students of today have become more cognizant of the investment in a post-secondary degree. Technical education is the right investment for Pennsylvanians who are ready to get to work to earn a family-sustaining wage.”

She also explained, “This grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission has so many positive implications for the programs it supports. Equipment is a major expense for technical colleges because it is critical that students learn on industry standard equipment that mirrors what they will use during their internships and on the job as new technicians. Equipment in the classroom should not only mirror equipment of today, but institutions are always considering technology and learning tools to prepare them for the future as well. Industry depends on us for this.”

About NEPA:

The NEPA Alliance, a regional community and economic development agency, serves the seven counties of Northeastern Pennsylvania including Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill and Wayne. NEPA Alliance services include Business Financing, Government Contracting Assistance, International Trade Assistance, Nonprofit Assistance, Transportation Planning, Research and Information, and Local Government Services. For more information about NEPA visit www.nepa-alliance.org or call 866-758-1929.  “This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”

About ARC:

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local government. Established by an act of Congress in 1965, ARC is composed of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chair, who is appointed by the president. Local participation is provided through multi-county local development districts. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia.

Johnson College Open Raises over $47,000 for Scholarships

Front Row (L-R): Bethany Severn ’20 (Presidential Scholarship Recipient), Paul Caruso (Simplex Homes), Tracey Pratt (Manager of Development – Johnson College), Katie Leonard (President & CEO – Johnson College), Liz Finley (Sweda Advertising), Mike Dennen (PNC Bank), Joyce Fasula (Gerrity’s Supermarkets), and Attorney Marianne Gilmartin (Stevens & Lee). 2nd Row: Alex Stark (Kane Is Able), Joe Shea ’85 (Shea Industries), Tom Donohue (Lamar Advertising), Preston West ’20 (Presidential Scholarship Recipient), Karyn Reilly (Reilly Associates), Andrew Hess (Earlbeck Gases & Technologies), and Benjamin Griffis ’19 (Presidential Scholarship Recipient).

Johnson College held its 26th Annual Johnson College Open on May 18, 2018 at Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club in Mountain Top, PA.  Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors and participation by students and alumni, the College exceeded its fundraising goal by raising a total net revenue of over $47,000 for the Presidential Scholarship Fund, which this year was awarded to four students. The recipients are Alexis Lanza, Radiologic Technology; Bethany Severn, Veterinary Technology; Benjamin Griffis, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology; and Preston West, Diesel Truck Technology.

Johnson College to Offer General Dynamics CNC Operator Training

Johnson College and General Dynamics have partnered to create a customized training program for entry-level CNC operator positions.  Candidates completing the program will be given preferred interview status for the entry-level CNC positions at General Dynamics in Eynon. Although program completion does not constitute an offer of employment, as candidates must meet all other pre-employment qualifications, the program was specifically designed to train individuals to work at General Dynamics. The 285-hour program runs for 12 weeks. Daytime or evening courses are available.

The curriculum includes applied mathematics, blueprint reading, safety, CNC terminology, program reading, CNC lathe setup and operations, CNC milling, as well as hoists, magnets, and turrets. Tuition assistance is available for qualified participants.

The next session begins January 7, 2019 at Johnson College. Register here.

Questions? Please call 570-702-8979 or email continuinged@johnson.edu.

Johnson Named #10 on Nationwide List of Two-Year Trade Colleges

Johnson College has joined the rankings of premiere technical education this morning by being ranked #10 on Forbes Top 25 Two-Year Trade Schools. Of 700 schools considered, Johnson College was recognized as one of the most prominent when it comes to “high-earning alumni, stand-out graduation and retention rates, and respectable debt repayment scores,” according to Forbes. The list of schools highlights industry that seeks a skilled workforce, education that is affordable and accessible. The list was based on IPEDS, College Score Card, and Pay Scale data. The methodology of the list is guided by the question, “What should a high school senior be looking for in higher education?” and according to Forbes, it is “a gateway to a great career.”

Katie Leonard, President  & CEO of Johnson College released the following statement:

“I’m so proud that our college is recognized in this way. It speaks to the quality of the student experience our faculty and staff create for our students and demonstrates the value of a real hands-on education.  Other schools say they offer this but we live it, it is who we are. It also highlights our hard working, highly skilled alumni; they are the heart of the nation’s workforce.”

As one of the most well-known sources for these types of lists, Forbes recognizes that the American workforce has a skills gap and wants to highlight institutions that are contributing to the future of skilled trades. Of the top 25, Johnson College is one of only four private institutions. The closest in the Pennsylvania region ranks #9 and is located in Lancaster, PA. The list ranks based on post-grad success, affordability, completion success, and student experience.

President Leonard is excited about how this ranking can further Johnson College’s reputation as the best technical school in NEPA, “We are educating the future workforce for high demand, well-paying careers. They attend for two years or less and graduate with less debt and a great job with significant growth potential. They earn valuable credentials that no one can take away from them and acquire a skill set they have for life.”

Johnson College Receives Training Equipment from Kenworth Truck Company & PACCAR Engine

Katie Leonard, Johnson College President & CEO; Frank Miller, Vice President at Kenworth of PA; Mark Kozemko, Johnson College Department Chair of Automotive Technology; Tracey Pratt, Johnson College Manager of Development; Willie Hobbs, Service Manager at Kenworth of PA; Tom Szczur, N.E. Region Kenworth Service Manager; Rod Pennington, N.E. Region Kenworth MX Engine District Service Manager; Fred Pope, Kenworth of PA General Manager of Dunmore; Rich Mason, Kenworth of PA Director of Service; and Mike Novak, Johnson College Chief Administrative Officer.

Johnson College has received a brand new Kenworth Engine Trainer to support the Diesel Truck Technology program’s curriculum. The Paccar MX engine, valued at over $53,000 allows students to learn how to rebuild and maintain the PACCAR MX diesel engine. Fred Pope, of Kenworth of PA, said this equipment is important to the Johnson College program and student preparation because “Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are now around 50% MX engine powered.”

Johnson College and Kenworth of PA have had an ongoing relationship for the last 12 years. Pope said, “It is important for Kenworth of PA to support the college to build entry level technicians and even provide them an opportunity to grow with the company.” As a long time employer and industry partner, Kenworth of PA currently staffs six Johnson College graduates at its Dunmore location.

The Diesel Truck Technology program prepares students as entry-level technicians with the latest information on diagnosis, repair procedures, preventive maintenance, and necessary safety applications in diesel technology. The course prepares students to take the voluntary mechanic certification test (ASE) in heavy-duty trucks. Graduates work as tune-up, brakes, transmission and refrigeration technicians; diesel truck repair and fleet maintenance technicians; service writing technicians; and sales and service representatives.

Johnson College Announces New Board Members for 2018-2019

Johnson College announces that three new members have been selected to serve on the Board of Directors and new officers have been elected. The new members were installed at the April 2018 meeting of the Board of Directors.  New board members include Richard Manasek, ’75, Frank Kilyanek, ’85, and Nicole Costanzo. Also, Nancy Luciani will return to the Board of Directors this academic year. New officers include Alexander E. Stark, Chair; Atty. Marianne Gilmartin, Vice Chair; and Christopher J. Haran, Treasurer.

Mr. Manasek is a 1975 graduate of the welding technology program at Johnson College. He is the CEO of both Amerifab, Inc. and Warner Bodies.

Mr. Kilyanek is a 1985 graduate of the building construction technology associate degree program at Johnson College. He also holds an associate’s degree in engineering technology – architectural engineering technology from Penn State University. Mr. Kilyanek has served on both Johnson College’s HVAC and Project Management Program Advisory Committees.

Ms. Costanzo is Vice president of PNC Bank in Scranton. She holds an MBA and Bachelor of Science degree in Economics & Finance from the University of Scranton. Ms. Costanzo also serves on the Junior Achievement of NEPA Board.

Ms. Luciani is the owner of Johnny’s Car Wash in Scranton. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Scranton. In her previous 10 years on the Johnson College board, she has served as part of the Presidential Search Committee and served as Vice Chair of the Board, 2016-17.  She has served on all of the Committees and has been most active in Student Life & Academics, Executive and Finance Committees.

Alexander E. Stark is the new chair of the board. He joined the Johnson College board of directors in 2012. Mr. Stark played an instrumental role in the Presidential Search Committee and was very active as Vice Chair for 2017-18. He was Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee and the Board Committee Restructuring Taskforce – he worked closely with President Leonard on restructuring the Board so their work could be more efficient.  He was also an active member of the Executive Committee. He is the director of marketing at Kane is able. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from the University of Scranton.

Atty. Marianne Gilmartin is the new vice chair of the board. She joined the Johnson College board of directors in 2014. Atty. Gilmartin has served on the Executive Committee, Governance Committee, Human Resources Committee and Board Committee Restructuring Taskforce.  She was the Chair of the Academic Achievement & Student Engagement Committee in 2017-18.  She has brought her skills as an attorney and as a leader in the community to her work of the board. She is an attorney and shareholder at Stevens & Lee. She holds a Juris Doctorate from Seton Hall University.

Christopher J. Haran is the new treasurer of the board. He joined the Johnson College board of directors in 2012. Mr. Haran has been instrumental in serving on the Governance Committee, most notably his work with board assessment initiatives. He holds a Master of Science degree in Management Science from Stony Brook University. He works professionally as a consultant and adjunct teacher.

Computer Information Technology Grad Makes an Impact at IBM Security

As a high school senior at Scranton Preparatory School who loved both computers and cooking, Salvatore Zaydon was torn on what he wanted to do after graduation. However, after seeing a Johnson College Open House banner and deciding to attend the event, he knew he belonged on campus.  “As soon as I met Mr. Polinsky, I said ‘Alright, I know I want to go to Johnson,’” the 25-year-old Dickson City native says. “He was a fun, bubbly guy who you could tell had a bunch of knowledge but also had a lot of fun while teaching it.“

Zaydon graduated in 2013 with an Associate of Science degree in Computer Information Technology. After Johnson College, he moved on to SUNY Polytechnic Institute where he earned his Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems in 2015. He now works as a Software Engineer for Learning Services at IBM Security where he helps customers and business partners learn how to best utilize their IBM Security software.

“Johnson College gave me a focus,” explains Zaydon, “It helped me figure out what I enjoyed and what I actually wanted to do. I knew I liked computers but I didn’t know what aspect I enjoyed. It was nice to be able to get that foundation and figure out what I wanted to build upon in the future.”

His interest in computers and technology started at a very young age. He recalls fondly that when the computer in his family home would break, he was the one who would fix it as his siblings stood by baffled.  “[Fixing computers] surprisingly came fairly easily to me, and I enjoyed doing it. I figured, I wanted to go online and play a game so, I may as well try and fix the problem,” he says.

Finding solutions to technological problems is something that he continues to do in his career today. Zaydon says that he loves his job because it allows him to find solutions to one of the computer industry’s biggest roadblocks- security. “It’s pretty cool because you see a vulnerability that comes out and someone, like a bank, gets hacked and you’re sitting there saying ‘we could have avoided that,’” he says.

Zaydon’s passion for and extensive knowledge of computers has also allowed him to give back to organizations that have made an impact on his life. As an Eagle Scout, Zaydon now tries to stay active with his former Troop 322 (chartered by the Dickson City Community Ambulance Association) as a troop leader and the troop’s Webmaster.

When discussing what values and advice he would share with Johnson College students today, Zaydon recalls something he was taught by Johnson College’s Computer Information Technology Department Chair and Instructor, Joe Polinsky, “If you get to the end of a project or have a problem and hit your solution, but there is still a little bit more that you can do to make it even better- do it. It’ll look better, and you’re doing a disservice to yourself if you do the bare minimum.” These values have certainly benefited him as he began his professional career, first in Philadelphia and now in Harrisburg.

For more information on the Computer Information Technology program, please click here