Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) was selected as the recipient of the Energizing Community Education Project grant funding through the West Penn Energy Fund for a second time. The College received $60,000.00 to support the expansion of the zSpace program over the next 12 months in Kane and beyond. The funds will also be used to explore the development of virtual and augmented reality experiences that include energy efficiency modules, using Six&Kane as the pilot location.
Overall, the educational programs and experiences will be conducted at Six&Kane in Kane, Pennsylvania, the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce in Emporium, Pennsylvania, and in partnership with local businesses and school districts throughout the 10-county region NPRC serves.
The Energizing Community Education Project involves comprehensive initiatives aimed at providing learning opportunities for middle to high school students and adults interested in career exploration using the zSpace system. zSpace is a technology company based in San Jose, California that delivers virtual and augmented reality experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), career and technical education (CTE), and career readiness programs from a computer.
The overall project will cover various topics related to sustainable development, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and career awareness in related fields. The programming aims to enhance participants’ knowledge and understanding of sustainable development and renewable energy sources, educate them on the effects of on the environment and potential solutions, while introducing them to renewable energy systems and their importance in energy efficiency.
Additionally, the program will offer adult career awareness and exploration opportunities in fields related to renewable energy and sustainability. This will aid in creating a more skilled workforce that can support the local economy and attract new businesses to the region. By investing in education and training, the program will contribute to the overall economic development and quality of life in West Penn Power and NPRC communities in northwestern and northcentral Pennsylvania.
To continue leading students, NPRC has hired Scott Foster full-time as the z-Space Program Coordinator to continue these efforts and expansions around the region.
NPRC’s Director of Community Development Dannielle Fickenworth shared, “This grant represents an important investment in NPRC’s ability to bring innovative, hands-on STEM and energy education to the communities we serve. Expanding the zSpace program will allow us to strengthen partnerships with schools, employers, and community organizations, while creating meaningful learning experiences connected to regional workforce needs. We are also excited to welcome Scott Foster to our team in a full-time capacity. His leadership, creativity, and experience with the program will be instrumental as we expand its reach and build a sustainable future for zSpace at NPRC.”
Scott Foster added, “It is a privilege to be part of the NPRC, being surrounded by a group of talented individuals who take education as seriously as I do. zSpace is a great tool to help enhance learning at all levels. Being here full time will allow expansion of the program and will allow more students to gain knowledge of the world around them.”
Stay tuned for more information about these community courses and opportunities.
NPRC acknowledges that the information contained in this content is complete and accurate at time of publication. It is descriptive in nature and the College reserves the right to make any adjustments it deems necessary or desirable. Updates to programs, tuition, or other academic-related items will be reflected in the online College Catalog or on the respective College web pages. Questions regarding accuracy of content may be emailed to marketing@nprc.edu.