(Lancaster, PA) — Representatives from the Associated Builders and Contractors, Keystone Chapter (ABC Keystone) and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology recently celebrated the signing of a new articulation agreement between the two institutions. The agreement allows for certain graduates of Thaddeus Stevens College to segue into apprenticeship programs sponsored by ABC Keystone with one or two-year standing already secured, depending on their degree or certificate.

Thaddeus Stevens College is a two-year, accredited technical college that prepares students for skilled employment in a diverse, ever-changing workforce. Founded in 1905 with 15 students, Thaddeus Stevens College has grown to more than 1,400 students and 24 technical programs. The College also includes a Workforce and Economic Development Center offering six-month trainings in trade skills, which are also eligible for this apprenticeship standing.

ABC Keystone serves as a resource for construction professionals, offering a range of services such as training, networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources to help businesses in the construction sector grow and succeed. It focuses on promoting a strong, skilled workforce, advocating for free-market principles in construction, and providing members with access to industry best practices, certifications, and professional development opportunities.

“Our mission is to transform lives through education that leads directly to a strong career with in-demand jobs,” said Pedro A. Rivera II, Ed.D., president of Thaddeus Stevens College. “Partnering with ABC Keystone will enable our students to jump forward in their skills and qualifications – an opportunity that will impact entire families and our communities.” 

This agreement applies to students who have completed an associate degree or six-month training with the College in the following programs: Carpentry Technology, Residential Remodeling, Electrical Technology, Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Masonry Construction Technology, Plumbing Technology, and Metals Fabrication & Welding Technology, Facility Maintenance Technology, and Electro-Mechanical Technology. Depending on the program, students are credited with six months, one year, or two years of Related Technical Instruction into the ABC Keystone’s Apprenticeship program.

“Partnerships like the one we have with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology are vital to ABC Keystone’s efforts to recruit and retain talent in the construction industry,” said Stephanie Larkin, Chief

Operating Officer of ABC Keystone Chapter. “We’re delighted to be part of an ecosystem that fosters individuals’ skill and career development. This articulation agreement will help a great number of Thaddeus Stevens graduates continue their education through a registered apprenticeship, providing them with greater access to careers in the commercial construction industry while providing ABC members with motivated, skilled talent. It’s a win-win.”

Students must have obtained an average grade of 80 percent or higher on all construction-related courses, as well as maintained a 95 percent attendance at the College’s program. Students must also submit a letter of reference from their Thaddeus Stevens College program instructor to ABC Keystone. Students requesting to articulate must be within 2,000 on-the-job training hours for the level of apprenticeship for which they are applying.

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An acclaimed residential two-year college in the heart of Central Pennsylvania, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is an accredited technical college dedicated to preparing students for high-demand careers with family-sustaining wages. Founded in 1905 with 15 students, Thaddeus Stevens College has grown to more than 1,400 students and 24 high-skill technical and trade degree programs. Through its mission, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology breaks down barriers that perpetuate educational inequities and creates access to a college degree. Committed to the legacy of its benefactor, Thaddeus Stevens, the college serves as an instrument of change in the lives of its students, graduates and employees who, in turn, impact change on businesses, industries and communities across Pennsylvania and beyond. stevenscollege.edu 

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The Keystone Chapter of Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) is a construction trade association based in Manheim, Pennsylvania, representing over 670 construction-related firms and nearly 30,000 employees. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 67 chapters nationwide help members win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work.

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