The Pennsylvania College of Technology is set to receive a 5% funding increase in the 2025-26 state budget. This move was announced by Senator Gene Yaw (R-23), who highlighted the college’s important contribution to workforce development and technical education.
“The General Assembly has long said we should pay for performance when it comes to our institutions of higher education,” Yaw said. “Time and time again, Penn College has risen to the occasion. Penn College has trained tomorrow’s workforce for more than a century, and they are setting the standard for technical education and innovation around the world. I am very pleased we have taken this step in rewarding their outstanding performance.”
The additional funding will help maintain access to programs such as welding, nursing, electrical, and aviation maintenance at Penn College. These areas are seen as crucial for providing students with career opportunities while supporting the future workforce needs of Pennsylvania.
Penn College President Michael J. Reed commented on the significance of the funding: “We are truly grateful for this additional funding, which enables us to continue fueling the Commonwealth’s workforce by delivering hands-on education in high-demand career fields that meet the needs of Pennsylvania’s businesses and industries. With 86.9% of our students coming from Pennsylvania and 81% of our alumni living and working in the state, this funding represents a strong investment in the Commonwealth’s future.”
The institution enrolls over 4,700 students each year, reskills more than 5,000 incumbent workers annually, and provides dual enrollment opportunities to over 2,000 high school students across Pennsylvania. Nearly 100 industry-aligned degrees and certificates are offered through its 150 labs.
According to U.S. News & World Report for 2026, Penn College holds a graduate placement rate of 98%. The college has also been ranked as the top school for innovation for three consecutive years, first among veteran students for two years running, and third among public schools in Regional Colleges (North). Its overall ranking among all public and private colleges in that category improved from fifth place in 2025 to fourth place in 2026.
Under current law, funds provided through House Bill 1421 are designated solely for tuition discounts benefiting in-state students. Institutions receiving these funds must comply with strict financial reporting requirements.
For more information about Senator Yaw’s work or related state news, constituents can visit his official website or follow him on social media platforms Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
