Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) plays a critical role in driving economic growth in the Greater Wyoming Valley by developing workforce-ready talent through innovative, accessible educational pathways. LCCC is partnering with the Pennsylvania Commission For Community Colleges to advance PAWorks, a first-in-the nation skilled trade workforce educational ecosystem that integrates high school Career and Technical Education with post-secondary pathways at community colleges. LCCC recently launched its Career & Technology Academy providing post-secondary opportunities to more than 2,000 CTE high school students in Luzerne County. LCCC will soon launch a new MicroCredential Academy and a Construction & Building Trade Pre-Apprenticeship Academy, allowing high school students and employees in the workforce an opportunity to directly align their skills with regional workforce needs through short-term, stackable credentials in high-demand fields.

LCCC’s “Teach in NEPA” partnership—developed in collaboration with Hazleton Area School District and Commonwealth University—creates an affordable, local pathway for students to pursue careers in education. By addressing teacher shortages and reducing barriers to entry into the profession, this initiative strengthens both the education system and long-term community stability.

LCCC’s new Act 120 Police Academy will address a critical shortage of police officers in local municipalities. Public safety is central to economic and community development. LCCC’s Act 120 Police Academy will be a collaborative partnership with local municipalities in building a sustainable workforce pipeline for municipal police officers.

Beyond workforce development, LCCC enhances overall community well-being through a strong focus on student support and access. The College provides holistic services through its Center for Student Support and Intervention, including food pantries, emergency assistance, and academic support—ensuring that students facing financial or personal challenges can persist and succeed. By combining career-connected education with comprehensive support systems, LCCC not only prepares individuals for employment but also contributes to stronger families, healthier communities, and a more resilient regional economy.

Make sure to join us to celebrate with LCCC and all our award recipients on Friday, July 17th at our STARS of the Valley Awards at the Westmoreland Club’s Grand Hall!

Tickets are on sale now at: https://business.wyomingvalleychamber.org/chambercalendar/Details/2026-stars-of-the-valley-awards-1621058?sourceTypeId=Website