Johnson College Scranton To Host Fall Open House Johnson College will hold its Fall Open House on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on its Scranton campus. To register to attend the Open House, visit Johnson.edu/openhouse or contact Johnson College’s Enrollment Department at 570-702-8856 or enroll@johnson.edu. The Open House will include discussions about the admissions process, information about financial aid for those who qualify, and student services such as student life, student support, and career services. Plus, same-day acceptance will be available for many programs if students bring their high school or college transcripts. Tours of each technical area will be conducted and program directors and instructors will be available to review the specifics of their programs.
Johnson College Now Enrolling for OSHA 30-Hour Training Course Johnson College is now accepting enrollments for its 30-hour, non-credit OSHA training course, which will be held at the college’s Scranton campus from Nov. 5 through Nov. 20, 2025. Classes will take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:45 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Designed for individuals in leadership roles, employees in general industry, and those seeking advanced safety training, the in-person course will cover critical workplace safety topics such as fall protection, electrical safety, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Participants will learn how to reduce workplace accidents, ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, and promote a culture of safety within their organizations. Upon successful completion, participants will receive the official OSHA 30 General Industry Outreach Course Completion Card. The cost of the course is $600. To register or learn more, visit johnson.edu/continuing-ed/osha-30, email the WAVE Team at wave@johnson.edu, or call 570-702-8979.
Johnson College To Host Annual Trunk-or-Treat Johnson College invites families and community organizations to its annual Trunk-or-Treat on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the college’s Scranton campus. The event will be held outside Bingham Hall, located on the upper part of campus. Johnson College students, faculty, staff and local organizations will hand out candy from decorated trunks. In past years, the event has welcomed hundreds of families and children. This free, family-friendly event offers a safe way to celebrate Halloween. Costumes are encouraged. Parking is available via the North entrance across from Schiff’s Marketplace. Businesses, nonprofits and community groups interested in handing out candy must register in advance. All participating groups are responsible for providing their own candy and trunk decorations. Drive-up or day-of participation will not be permitted without prior approval. To reserve a spot or for more information, contact the Student Success team by Thursday, Oct. 23, at studentsuccess@johnson.edu or call 570-702-8953 or 570-702-8912.
Johnson College Receives Grant from Fastenal BK5K Johnson College received a $1,650 grant from the Fastenal BK5K Youth Fund Committee to support the College’s Girls on Fire events. Girls on Fire is a unique one-day STEM event designed for 6-9th grade students to explore career opportunities in non-traditional STEM fields. Pictured left to right: Tim Frank, Associate Director of Community Engagement, Johnson College; Marcelo DeSousa, Regional Operations Manager S-HUB, Fastenal; Whitney McDonald, S-HUB Help Desk Manager, Fastenal; Dr. Katie Pittelli, President and CEO, Johnson College; Kellyn Williams, Associate Vice President of Special Programs, Johnson College. The event is an integral part of the College’s Women in Industry Initiative and is held in conjunction with International Women’s Day. The Girls on Fire event includes tours of Johnson College’s campuses, presentations about industry experiences from women working in non-traditional STEM fields, and hands-on activities related to many of the programs offered at the College. Fastenal’s support helps Johnson College continue its mission to inspire young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM and the trades. By connecting students with real-world experiences and industry professionals, the College aims to break down barriers and empower the next generation of women in technical fields. The BK5K, a 5-kilometer road race and walk, is held to honor Bob Kierlin, founder of Fastenal Company and lifelong supporter of youth programs. All proceeds support local youth organizations/programs that demonstrate financial need, where races are held. Learn more at https://www.bk5k.com/.
Johnson College Achieves Seventh Straight Year of Record Enrollment Johnson College has reached another milestone, marking its seventh consecutive year of record enrollment. As of August 25, the first day of the 2025-26 academic year, 717 students are enrolled across both the Scranton and Hazleton campuses. This is a 6% increase over last year. This year’s incoming class includes more than 340 first-year students and nearly 90 high school students enrolled in the College’s Industry Fast Track early college program. “Our continued growth reflects the value students and families place on hands-on, technical education that leads directly to in-demand careers,” said Bill Burke, vice president of enrollment and student affairs. “They’re choosing Johnson College because they know we offer the training and experience employers are looking for.” The College’s Hazleton campus saw a 62% enrollment increase over last year. It welcomed its first HVAC class and the largest incoming classes to date in Electrical Construction Technology and Welding Technology. “We’re building strong momentum in Hazleton,” Burke added. “The demand for technical programs continues to grow, and students are responding to the opportunities available right in their communities.” Programs showing the highest year-over-year growth include Carpentry Technology (100%), Radiologic Technology (50%), and HVAC (12%). Other core programs, such as Electrical Construction Technology, also saw continued strong momentum. “These enrollment increases align with what we’re hearing from industry. Employers need skilled technicians and technologists, and our students are stepping in to fill those roles,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, president and CEO. “We’re excited to welcome this year’s class and to continue expanding access to career-focused education across northeastern Pennsylvania.”
Johnson College To Host Carpentry Workshop Johnson College is now accepting registrations for its Women at the Workbench: Carpentry Workshop, a hands-on, one-day experience designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of woodworking in a welcoming and supportive environment. The workshop will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the college’s Scranton campus. The cost is $65. Registration is available at johnson.edu/workshops. For more information, contact the college’s WAVE team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979. Participants will learn essential carpentry skills, including how to measure, cut and assemble materials, while working on their own individual projects. The workshop is ideal for beginners or anyone looking to build their confidence with tools and hands-on work. This workshop, through Johnson College WAVE’s (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education) department, offers more than just technical instruction. It’s an opportunity to step up to the workbench, gain practical experience, and walk away with something you built yourself, along with the confidence to keep building. The workshop is open to participants 18 years and older. All are welcome.
Johnson College WAVE Department Announces Fall Community Workshops Johnson College’s Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education (WAVE) department is offering a series of engaging, hands-on and affordable community workshops this fall on its Scranton campus, located at 3427 N. Main Avenue. These interactive sessions are designed for learners of all ages and skill levels who want to explore new hobbies, relax, and have fun while learning something new. Pumpkin Carving Class – Tuesday, Oct. 21 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.Get into the Halloween spirit with a hands-on pumpkin carving class. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned carver, this festive workshop is perfect for all. Participants will receive step-by-step guidance; tools and pumpkins will be provided. The evening will include a brief talk on the history of the Jack-o’-Lantern. The class will take place in the cafeteria of the Moffat Student Center. Cost is $30 per person. Ages 10 and up are welcome. Children ages 10 to 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Space is limited. Tai Chi Workshop – Saturdays, Nov. 1, 8, 15 & 22 | 2–3 p.m.Join a four-week Tai Chi workshop led by Master Instructor Wayne Wolfe, a teacher of traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan with over 30 years of experience. Participants will learn a nine-minute motion group designed to circulate energy throughout the body in a relaxed and mindful way. The workshop, held on the Scranton campus, is suitable for all fitness levels and offers benefits for both body and mind. The cost for the full session is $50. Succulent 101 – Thursday, Nov. 13 | 5:30–7 p.m.Perfect for beginners and plant lovers alike, the Succulent 101 class offers a casual, hands-on introduction to succulent care. Participants will learn how to help their plants thrive and avoid common mistakes. Each attendee will pot their own succulent to take home. This beginner-friendly class will be held on the Scranton campus and costs $25 per person. To learn more or register for any of these workshops, visit johnson.edu/workshops. For questions, contact the WAVE Team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979.
Johnson College to Host Fall Flower Design Workshop Johnson College is now accepting registrations for its Fall Flower Design Workshop, a cozy, hands-on class where participants will create their own floral arrangement using seasonal blooms, rich colors, and natural textures. The workshop will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the college’s Scranton campus. The cost is $40. Registration is available at johnson.edu/workshops. For more information, contact the college’s WAVE team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979. This workshop is perfect for all skill levels and includes all materials, step-by-step instruction and a completed arrangement to take home and enjoy. Participants will explore the beauty of autumn through floral design, embracing creativity in a welcoming environment. The workshop is open to individuals ages 10 and up, accompanied by a guardian. No prior experience is necessary, making it ideal for anyone interested in learning the art of flower arranging in a relaxed, seasonal setting.
Johnson College Receives Scholarship Award from Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club The Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc. presented a $1,500 check to support the organization’s annual scholarship for Johnson College Automotive Technology students with demonstrated financial need. This marks the 15th year the scholarship has been awarded to Johnson College students. Funds are raised through donations, volunteer work, sponsorships and annual calendar sales. Johnson College’s two-year associate degree program in Automotive Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in the automobile and diesel industries. Graduates may work in automotive, truck, farm and earthmoving equipment dealerships; truck, power generation and construction companies; automotive service centers; engine repair and machine shops; automotive equipment distributors; independent service garages; automotive parts manufacturers; sales roles; and auto insurance companies. During Johnson College’s Truck and Cruiser Palooza event in mid-September, the Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc. presented a $1,500 check to support its annual scholarship for Johnson College Automotive Technology students. Pictured from left: Dave Thomas, Villa Capri secretary; Kathy Eggleston, Villa Capri member; Luke Casterline, Villa Capri treasurer; Sal Pizzo, Villa Capri vice president; John Eggleston, Villa Capri member; Doug Cook, senior director of college advancement, Johnson College; Joe Caputo, Villa Capri board member; Dr. Kellyn Williams, associate vice president of special programs, Johnson College; and Joe Carra, Villa Capri president.
Johnson College Introduces Workforce Training Program to Support Regional Development Johnson College has launched its Customized Training Solutions program, offering flexible, targeted workforce development to meet the evolving needs of employers across northeastern Pennsylvania. Delivered through the college’s WAVE team (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education), the initiative is designed to help businesses train smarter and grow stronger. “Customized Training Solutions isn’t just about delivering education. It’s about building partnerships that solve real business challenges,” said Ashley Bechaver, director of WAVE. “From navigating compliance updates to reducing turnover or onboarding faster, we work with employers to create programs that lead to real results.” Grounded in Johnson College’s industry-aligned technical programs, the training is led by instructors with hands-on experience in fields such as HVAC, electrical construction technology, welding, advanced manufacturing, automotive and diesel truck technology, biomedical equipment technology, computer information technology, construction technology, and robotics and industrial automation. Programs are fully adaptable to meet each organization’s specific goals. Training is designed to align closely with each company’s tools, systems, and workflows, using equipment and scenarios that reflect real-world conditions to ensure practical, relevant learning with minimal disruption. Delivered on-site, online, or at Johnson College’s Scranton or Hazleton campuses, the training helps businesses boost productivity, improve quality, and retain employees. By focusing on job-specific expertise, companies can reduce downtime, minimize errors, and stay ahead of industry trends, while addressing challenges such as rapid growth, evolving job demands, and the need to build new workforce capabilities with measurable, long-term results. Businesses interested in creating a tailored training plan can contact the WAVE team at 570-702-8979 or email wave@johnson.edu. Inquiries should include the contact’s name, business name, title and preferred method of contact. To learn more about the program, visit johnson.edu/wave/trainingsolutions.
