Gov. Wolf visits Eastern Center for Arts and Technology in Montgomery County

Gov. Tom Wolf, along with legislators and local education leaders, toured the Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) in Montgomery County, Penn., this week.

The students led the governor on a tour of the veterinary science, construction technology, welding technology, and practical nursing programs. They also provided demonstrations of their skills and talked with the governor about their experiences and future career plans.

“The vo-tech of the past has been transformed into advanced career and technical centers where students can get an education and develop real-world skills,” Wolf said. “There isn’t a one-size-fits-all path for every high school student, and CTCs give students options to choose which path is best for them. After graduation, they can continue their education in college or a job training program or enter the workforce.”

Pennsylvania has more than 80 career and technical education centers (CTCs) that offer programs approved by the Department of Education.

Wolf’s PAsmart initiative is investing $70 million over two years in science and technology education, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships, including $10 million for CTCs. EASTERN will use the funding it received to create a robotics and automated technology program beginning next school year. EASTERN also received a competitive equipment grant of $8,813 to assist with the purchase of three welding machines.

“We are honored that Governor Wolf chose to tour EASTERN today,” Dr. Cathleen Plesnarski, executive director of EASTERN, said. “We appreciate his support of career and technical education. Career and technical education provides cost-effective ways for students to explore, clarify, and pursue their career goals and opens multiple pathways to success for our students.”