LCCC President John Yudichak Participates in State Senate Hearing on Strengthening Education-Workforce Partnerships

Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) President John Yudichak joined leaders from across Pennsylvania for a public hearing on strategies to enhance partnerships between educators and workforce development organizations. The hearing, hosted by the Senate Majority Policy Committee and chaired by Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), took place at Lycoming College on Tuesday.*

The event brought together legislators, educators, employers, labor leaders, career development specialists, and students to discuss collaborative efforts to prepare students for in-demand careers and drive Pennsylvania's economic growth.

President Yudichak highlighted LCCC's commitment to meeting regional workforce needs, including the launch of the new Technology and Trades Workforce Consortium in northeast Pennsylvania. "Pennsylvania faces a projected 218,000-worker shortage by 2032 due to credential gaps, including more than 12,000 workers needed in the trades and maintenance alone," said Yudichak. "Without immediate and sustained investment in workforce development, these gaps will only grow wider."

Sen. Yaw praised the leadership of local institutions, stating, "Today's hearing highlighted how local institutions like Lycoming College and Penn College are leading the way in connecting higher education with workforce development. A strong, skilled workforce is the foundation of our future."

Sen. Argall emphasized the urgency of bridging gaps in key fields such as healthcare, education, and the skilled trades. "Today's discussion was valuable as we seek to identify key problems and bridge any gaps that exist between our educators and these important industries," Argall said.

Other participants included Charles W. Edmonds, Ed.D., president of Lycoming College; Thomas P. Foley, J.D., president of the Association of Independent College and Universities of Pennsylvania; Aaron Riggleman of the PA Chamber of Business and Industry; and Erica Mulberger of Advance Central PA. Each shared perspectives on adapting to technological change, lifelong learning, and the importance of aligning education with employer demand.

The hearing underscored the importance of collaboration between education and workforce sectors to ensure Pennsylvania remains competitive and that students are equipped for success in a rapidly evolving job market.