Answer extracted from the Building PA Podcast — listen to the full episode below.
Who can enroll in TechCentro's skilled trades programs?
TechCentro welcomes high school graduates and adults seeking skilled trades training. The center does not enroll anyone without a high school diploma, but actively prioritizes residents from high-poverty areas like Harrisburg, where poverty rates significantly exceed the state average.
The program structure is clear and straightforward: you must have completed high school before enrolling. Recent high school graduates interested in exploring a trade career are welcome to apply. However, TechCentro's mission remains firmly anchored in serving adult learners, and Robert Torres explains that the center deliberately focuses on adult workforce development rather than secondary education.
Location matters significantly in the enrollment process. Harrisburg residents benefit from preferential access because the city faces economic challenges that exceed state averages. This geographic targeting reflects TechCentro's commitment to addressing workforce gaps in communities with the greatest need. The center has already demonstrated this reach—since beginning operations just over a year ago, it has served people from over 20 different countries, showing genuine commitment to accessibility.
The facilities maintenance program, set to launch as one of TechCentro's first construction trades offerings, exemplifies the accessibility model. Classes will run 8 to 12 weeks, Monday through Friday for approximately 5-6 months, making it feasible for working adults to complete training without disrupting their lives entirely.
"I want people to understand how to problem solve, the critical thinking behind problem solving. That to me would be someone attractive to hire."
Robert Torres — Director, TechCentro Capital Region. Torres leads operations in Midtown Harrisburg, overseeing adult basic education, occupational training, allied health careers, and skilled trades programs. He directs a bilingual workforce development center modeled after Lancaster's proven model, which has served communities successfully for more than 10 years.
For those curious about what happens after enrollment, Torres discusses the center's partnerships with major employers like UPMC and Penn State Health, which directly hire graduates into career-track positions.
High school completion: the non-negotiable baseline
TechCentro's eligibility requirement reflects a deliberate choice about mission scope. By requiring high school completion, the center ensures students enter with foundational literacy and numeracy skills. This approach allows instructors to focus entirely on trade-specific skills rather than remedial education.
Assessment happens quickly once you apply. Math and reading assessments take just 15 to 30 minutes, helping the center understand baseline skills and tailor support. Small cohorts—averaging about 10 students per session—keep instruction personalized and responsive.
Key takeaways
- Enrollment requires high school graduation; the center does not accept students without a diploma.
- Adults are the primary target, though recent high school graduates interested in trades are welcome.
- Harrisburg residents receive priority access due to the city's higher-than-average poverty rate.
- TechCentro has already served individuals from over 20 countries since launching, demonstrating broad reach and accessibility.
See also
What are the main challenges TechCentro faces in launching its construction trades programs?
The primary challenge has been recruiting qualified instructors willing to teach part-time or full-time positions in the trades.
What specific trade programs does TechCentro offer or plan to offer?
TechCentro offers and plans to offer facilities maintenance, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, electromechanical, welding, and renewable energy solar training.
How many TechCentro locations exist and where is the Harrisburg center modeled from?
There are six TechCentro locations total. The Harrisburg center is modeled after Lancaster's centers, which have been operating for more than 10 years.