Sec. Manderino Continues 'Jobs that Pay' Tour in Lancaster

LANCASTER, Pa., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Kathy Manderino today continued the Jobs that Pay tour at Fenner Drives and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (TSCT) in Lancaster County.  At Fenner Drives, Manderino toured the company's extrusion and warehouse operations and viewed its 3D printing line.

"This international company truly has a wealth of manufacturing, technical and commercial expertise," Sec. Manderino said.  "With two manufacturing facilities in Lancaster County, Fenner Drives is a great example of the type of state-of-the art facilities and highly skilled jobs available for Pennsylvanians interested in pursuing jobs in manufacturing." 

In addition, Fenner Drives has been involved in a unique program to foster community engagement and increase production levels. Through a partnership with L&I's Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, the company has provided work-based learning opportunities for high school students with disabilities.

Several students were interviewed and six were selected to work closely with Fenner Drives staff in several areas of the manufacturing facility. The five-month program will provide valuable work experience and a few of the students will also have the opportunity to continue working with the company throughout the summer. 

Sec. Manderino followed the Fenner tour by participating in an all-female roundtable hosted by Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (TSCT). The discussion centered on how to encourage more women to consider science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers.  

"For months I have been traveling the state and discussing the value of a STEM education and the numerous opportunities available to students who seek one," Sec. Manderino said. "Today's conversation was an excellent opportunity to discuss how to work toward a better-rounded Pennsylvania workforce not just for women, but for all workers," said Manderino.  

Sec. Manderino's tour highlighted the need to support funding for career and technical education programs and to encourage employers and postsecondary institutions to continue to work together to create a pool of qualified workers for today's manufacturing and STEM careers.

Media Contact: Sara Goulet, 717-787-7530

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry

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http://www.state.pa.us