If you live in Penn Township, Export, Greensburg, Irwin, or anywhere in Westmoreland County, you can start building an IT career without committing to a four-year college degree. Structured, hands-on training through a focused program like the Computer Network Security Technician program at Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township campus can prepare you for entry-level technology roles faster, with practical skills employers actually use.

For many students in western Pennsylvania, the smarter move is not 鈥渕ore school.鈥� It鈥檚 the right school.

Now let鈥檚 break down why.

The Myth: You Need a Four-Year Degree to Work in IT

For years, technology careers were tied to traditional university paths. But today鈥檚 IT workforce tells a different story.

Employers increasingly care about:

• Practical technical skills
• Familiarity with real-world systems
• Problem-solving ability
• Network troubleshooting knowledge
• Security awareness

In many cases, especially for entry-level roles, hiring managers are less focused on a four-year diploma and more interested in whether you can:

• Configure a network
• Understand cybersecurity fundamentals
• Support users and systems
• Identify vulnerabilities
• Follow security protocols

That鈥檚 where focused technical training becomes powerful.

What Does an IT Career Actually Look Like in Western Pennsylvania?

In Westmoreland County and surrounding areas, IT professionals work in:

• Healthcare systems
• Manufacturing facilities
• Local government offices
• Small and mid-sized businesses
• Financial institutions
• School districts

These employers rely on network stability and cybersecurity protection every single day. Even a small business in Greensburg or Murrysville needs someone who understands:

• Network configuration
• Router and switch setup
• System updates and maintenance
• Basic cybersecurity defenses
• Troubleshooting user issues

Technology is no longer optional infrastructure. It鈥檚 foundational.

What Is the Computer Network Security Technician Program?

At Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township campus, the Computer Network Security Technician (CNS) program is designed to prepare students for real-world IT environments.

Instead of spending years in general education courses, students focus on:

• Network fundamentals
• Computer hardware and software systems
• Security concepts
• Troubleshooting techniques
• Cybersecurity basics
• Operating system configuration

The goal is simple: build practical, job-ready skills.

This type of focused training can be ideal for:

• Career changers
• Recent high school graduates
• Adults re-entering the workforce
• Students who prefer hands-on learning

Why Starting Local in Penn Township Makes Sense

Training close to home has advantages many students overlook.

1. Accessibility

Students in Penn Township, Export, Irwin, and nearby communities can attend training without relocating. That matters for working adults and parents balancing responsibilities.

2. Community Workforce Alignment

Local training programs understand the regional job market. Employers in western Pennsylvania may have different needs than those in larger metropolitan tech hubs.

3. Networking Opportunities

Building relationships locally can open doors. In smaller markets, reputation and connections often carry real weight.

Entry-Level IT Roles You Can Pursue

After completing network security training, graduates may pursue roles such as:

• IT Support Technician
• Network Support Specialist
• Help Desk Technician
• Junior Network Administrator
• Systems Support Assistant

These roles often involve:

• Assisting employees with tech issues
• Monitoring network performance
• Installing hardware and software
• Supporting cybersecurity efforts
• Maintaining system reliability

For many students, this is the gateway into long-term IT advancement.

Network Support vs Cybersecurity: Where Does CNS Fit?

Some students believe cybersecurity is a completely separate field. In reality, cybersecurity grows from networking fundamentals.

Before protecting systems, you must understand how they function.

The CNS program builds:

• Core networking knowledge
• Security awareness
• Systems troubleshooting skills

This foundation allows graduates to enter support roles while positioning themselves for future specialization.

Is IT Right for You?

An IT career may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy solving problems
• Like working with technology
• Prefer active troubleshooting over routine tasks
• Want a career with cross-industry demand
• Value technical skill-building

You do not need to be a 鈥渃omputer genius.鈥� You need curiosity, persistence, and structured training.

Why Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township Campus?

Students choose Laurel鈥檚 Penn Township campus because it offers:

• Focused technical education
• Hands-on lab experience
• Industry-aligned curriculum
• Supportive instructors
• Convenient access for Westmoreland County residents

Local training, real-world preparation, and structured instruction combine to create a practical pathway into technology.

Final Takeaway

If you live in Penn Township or surrounding western Pennsylvania communities, a four-year degree is not your only option for entering IT.

Structured, hands-on training through Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Computer Network Security Technician program can help you build the skills employers value, without spending years in traditional college.

Technology needs problem-solvers. If that sounds like you, the path might be closer than you think.

If you鈥檙e considering nursing in Penn Township, Export, or Westmoreland County, the decision between becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered Nurse (RN) can feel overwhelming.

Here鈥檚 the practical reality: for many local students, beginning with a Practical Nursing program offers a faster, more accessible entry into healthcare, while still allowing room for future advancement. Laurel’s practical nursing program does not guarantee licensure as a Practical Nurse. Successful graduates of the program must take the NCLEX-PN and pass in order to be recognized as an LPN.

At Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township campus, the Practical Nursing program provides structured training designed to prepare students for licensure and entry into the workforce.

Now let鈥檚 examine how the two paths compare.

What Does an LPN Do?

Licensed Practical Nurses work under the supervision of RNs and physicians. They provide direct patient care in settings such as:

• Long-term care facilities
• Skilled nursing centers
• Rehabilitation centers
• Physician offices
• Clinics

Daily responsibilities often include:

• Monitoring vital signs
• Assisting with patient care
• Administering medications within scope
• Observing and reporting changes in patient condition
• Supporting patients and families

LPNs play a critical role in patient-centered care.

What Does an RN Do?

Registered Nurses typically have broader responsibilities, which may include:

• Developing care plans
• Performing advanced assessments
• Supervising LPNs and nursing assistants
• Coordinating patient care
• Administering more complex treatments

RNs often work in:

• Hospitals
• Specialty units
• Emergency departments
• Outpatient centers
• Community health settings

The RN role usually requires more extensive education.

Education Differences in Pennsylvania

LPN Education

To become an LPN in Pennsylvania, students must:

1. Complete a state-approved Practical Nursing program
2. Pass the -PN exam
3. Apply for licensure through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing

At Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township campus, students receive classroom instruction, lab training, and supervised clinical experience designed to prepare them for licensure.

RN Education

To become an RN, students typically complete:

• An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or
• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

They must then pass the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN programs generally take longer to complete.

Time Commitment: A Major Deciding Factor

For many students in Westmoreland County, time is a deciding factor.

If you are:

• Supporting a family
• Working full-time
• Seeking a quicker transition into healthcare

The shorter timeline of a Practical Nursing program may be more realistic.

Gaining an education Practical Nursing allows students to enter the workforce sooner, gain experience, and potentially continue their education later.

Career Flexibility and Advancement

Some students worry that choosing the LPN path limits long-term options. That is not necessarily true.

Many LPNs:

• Gain valuable clinical experience
• Build confidence in patient care
• Later pursue RN bridge programs (also offered through Laurel as an hybrid-online option)

Starting as an LPN can provide financial stability while planning future advancement.

Workforce Demand in Western Pennsylvania

Healthcare remains one of the most stable employment sectors in Pennsylvania.

Westmoreland County and surrounding areas consistently need:

• Long-term care staff
• Rehabilitation support
• Clinic-based nursing professionals

Practical nursing roles are especially prominent in long-term and community care settings.

Local training at Laurel鈥檚 Penn Township campus aligns with these workforce realities.

Which Path Makes Sense for You?

You might consider the Practical Nursing path if you:

• Want to enter healthcare sooner
• Prefer a structured, focused program
• Plan to gain experience before advancing
• Need a practical timeline

You might consider the RN path if you:

• Are prepared for a longer educational commitment
• Want expanded clinical authority
• Intend to specialize in hospital settings

There is no 鈥渙ne-size-fits-all鈥� answer.

Why Start at Laurel Technical Institute in Penn Township?

Students choose Laurel鈥檚 Practical Nursing program because it offers:

• Hands-on lab training
• Supervised clinical experience
• Supportive instruction
• Local accessibility
• Preparation aligned with Pennsylvania licensure requirements

Training locally allows students in Penn Township, Export, Greensburg, and nearby communities to stay connected to family and support systems.

Choosing between Practical Nursing and RN in Penn Township comes down to timeline, goals, and personal circumstances.

For many students, starting in Practical Nursing provides a realistic, structured entry into healthcare, with opportunities to grow from there.

At Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township campus, Practical Nursing training offers a focused pathway designed to help students move from interest to licensure to employment with confidence.

The first step into nursing does not have to be the longest one.

If you鈥檙e considering a career in the electrical field, you鈥檒l likely encounter two common training paths: electrical trade school and electrical apprenticeship. Both can lead to long-term careers, but they are not equal starting points, especially for students in Penn Township and the Export, PA area.

At Laurel Technical Institute, students can begin electrical training at the Penn Township (Export) campus through the Electrical Technician program, gaining hands-on experience and foundational skills right away. For many aspiring electricians, starting with trade school provides structure, access, and early confidence that apprenticeships alone often cannot.

Understanding the Electrical Career Path

Electrical technicians and electricians work in residential, commercial, and industrial environments installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. The work demands:

• Strong technical knowledge
• Comfort using tools and equipment
• A deep understanding of safety practices
• The ability to troubleshoot problems quickly

Because electrical systems can be dangerous, proper training is not optional, it鈥檚 essential.

What Is an Electrical Trade School?

An electrical trade school provides structured, career-focused education designed to prepare students for entry-level electrical work. At Laurel Technical Institute, the Electrical Technician program offered at the Penn Township (Export) campus blends classroom instruction with hands-on lab training starting early in the program.

Students do not spend months waiting to 鈥済et to the good part.鈥� Instead, they begin developing practical skills within the first week, working in lab environments that mirror real-world electrical scenarios.

Typical areas of study include:

• Electrical theory and circuitry fundamentals
• Blueprint and schematic reading
• National Electrical Code (NEC) basics
• Residential and commercial wiring
• Electrical safety and troubleshooting techniques

This approach helps students connect theory to practice from day one.

Immediate Hands-On Training at Laurel Technical Institute

One common misconception is that trade school is mostly classroom-based while apprenticeships offer hands-on learning right away. At Laurel, that simply isn鈥檛 the case.

Students in the Electrical Technician program:

• Begin hands-on lab and skills training early in the program
• Work with real tools and simulated electrical systems
• Practice safety procedures in controlled environments
• Build confidence before stepping onto job sites

This early lab exposure allows students to learn how and why electrical systems work 鈥� not just follow instructions.

Why Trade School Often Makes a Better Starting Point

For many students in western Pennsylvania, trade school offers advantages that apprenticeships alone may not provide.

1. Clear Entry Path

Trade school programs typically have a straightforward admissions process. Apprenticeships, by contrast, can involve:

• Competitive application processes
• Entrance exams and interviews
• Limited openings
• Waiting lists

Starting at Laurel Technical Institute allows students to begin training without delay.

2. Structured Skill Development

Trade school follows a planned curriculum. Students learn electrical concepts in a logical sequence, ensuring they understand fundamentals before moving to advanced topics.

This structure is especially helpful for:

• Students new to the electrical field
• Career changers
• Individuals who learn best with guided instruction

3. Safer Learning Environment

Before working on active job sites, students at Laurel practice skills in lab settings designed for learning. This reduces risk while reinforcing:

• Proper tool use
• Electrical safety protocols
• Code awareness

Confidence built in the lab carries over into the workplace.

4. Strong Foundation for Employment or Apprenticeship

Many employers value candidates who already understand electrical basics. Completing trade school can make students more attractive to:

• Electrical contractors
• Maintenance departments
• Manufacturing facilities
• Apprenticeship sponsors

Rather than replacing apprenticeships, trade school often strengthens a student鈥檚 position when pursuing one.

What Is an Electrical Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction over several years. Apprentices work under licensed electricians while accumulating required hours toward journeyman status.

Apprenticeships can be valuable, but they:

• Are not always easy to secure
• Require long-term commitments
• May limit exposure to certain types of electrical work early on

Without foundational knowledge, some apprentices spend significant time observing before actively contributing.

Trade School vs Apprenticeship: A Practical Comparison

Hands-On Experience

• Trade School (Laurel): Hands-on lab work begins early, in a controlled learning environment
• Apprenticeship: Hands-on exposure varies by employer and job site

Learning Pace

• Trade School: Designed for learning and skill development
• Apprenticeship: Focused on productivity and job completion

Accessibility

• Trade School: Predictable start dates and admissions
• Apprenticeship: Competitive and availability-dependent

Career Readiness

• Trade School: Builds confidence and core skills before employment
• Apprenticeship: Builds experience over time

Why Laurel Technical Institute in Penn Township (Export), PA?

Students choose Laurel鈥檚 Electrical Technician program because it offers:

• Immediate hands-on lab training
• Experienced instructors with industry backgrounds
• A structured, supportive learning environment
• Convenient access for students in Export and Westmoreland County
• Career-focused education aligned with employer expectations

Training locally also helps students build connections within the western Pennsylvania workforce.

Electrical Careers in Western Pennsylvania

Skilled electrical professionals are needed across:

• Residential construction and remodeling
• Commercial facilities
• Manufacturing and industrial operations
• Maintenance and service roles

Starting with trade school allows students to prepare for these opportunities with confidence and technical knowledge.

Is Electrical Training Right for You?

Electrical careers may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy hands-on work
• Like solving technical problems
• Prefer active careers over desk jobs
• Value skills that remain in demand

With the right training, electrical work can offer stability, growth, and pride in craftsmanship.

Start Electrical Training with Confidence

When comparing electrician trade school vs apprenticeship in Pennsylvania, many students find that starting with trade school provides the strongest foundation. The Electrical Technician program at Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township (Export) campus offers structured learning, early hands-on experience, and career-focused preparation 鈥� helping students move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you鈥檙e exploring a healthcare career that allows you to work closely with patients while entering the workforce in a relatively short time, practical nursing may be the right path. For students in Penn Township and the Export, PA area, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) offers a clear, structured way to begin a nursing career without committing to a four-year degree.

At Laurel Technical Institute, students can complete Practical Nursing training at the Penn Township campus, which serves learners throughout Export, Westmoreland County, and surrounding western Pennsylvania communities. This guide explains the steps to becoming an LPN and how local training can make the journey more accessible.

Step 1: Learn What an LPN Does

Licensed Practical Nurses are essential members of the healthcare team. Working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and physicians, LPNs provide hands-on care to patients in a variety of settings.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Taking and monitoring vital signs
• Assisting patients with daily care needs
• Administering medications as permitted by state regulations
• Observing and reporting changes in patient condition
• Supporting patients and families with compassionate care

For many students in the Penn Township and Export area, practical nursing is appealing because it combines personal interaction with technical skill, offering meaningful work in healthcare.

Step 2: Meet Admission Requirements for Practical Nursing

To enroll in a Practical Nursing program, students generally need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• To meet admissions and assessment requirements
• The ability to meet physical and clinical demands of nursing

At Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township campus, admissions teams work with students to help them understand requirements and prepare for enrollment.

Step 3: Enroll in a Practical Nursing Program at Laurel Technical Institute

The most important step toward becoming an LPN is completing a state-approved Practical Nursing program. At Laurel Technical Institute, the Practical Nursing program offered at the Penn Township (Export) campus is designed to prepare students for both clinical practice and licensure.

Coursework typically includes:

• Nursing fundamentals
• Anatomy and physiology
• Pharmacology basics
• Patient care techniques
• Infection control and safety
• Professional nursing responsibilities

Students benefit from a blend of classroom instruction, lab practice, and hands-on training that builds confidence over time.

Step 4: Complete Supervised Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical part of practical nursing education. During this phase, students apply what they鈥檝e learned in real healthcare environments under professional supervision.

Clinical experiences help students:

• Develop bedside skills
• Understand healthcare workflows
• Gain confidence working with patients
• Prepare for real-world nursing responsibilities

Training locally through Laurel鈥檚 Penn Township campus allows students to gain experience within the western Pennsylvania healthcare community.

Step 5: Prepare for the NCLEX-PN Exam

Graduates of a Practical Nursing program must pass the to become licensed. Laurel Technical Institute structures its Practical Nursing curriculum to align with licensure expectations, helping students build both knowledge and test readiness.

Preparation typically includes:

• Reviewing nursing concepts
• Practicing clinical decision-making questions
• Developing effective test-taking strategies

Step 6: Become Licensed as an LPN in Pennsylvania

After passing the NCLEX-PN, graduates apply for licensure through the . Once licensed, individuals are eligible to work as Licensed Practical Nurses throughout the state.

This step officially marks the transition from nursing student to nursing professional.

Step 7: Begin Your Nursing Career in Westmoreland County

Graduates from Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Practical Nursing program may find opportunities in:

• Long-term care and skilled nursing facilities
• Hospitals and outpatient clinics
• Physician offices
• Rehabilitation and assisted living centers

Healthcare remains one of the most stable employment sectors, and practical nursing offers opportunities for long-term growth and advancement.

Why Choose Laurel Technical Institute in Penn Township (Export), PA?

Students choose Laurel鈥檚 Penn Township campus because it offers:

• Local, accessible nursing education
• Hands-on clinical preparation
• Experienced instructors
• A supportive learning environment
• Strong ties to the regional healthcare community

Start Your Path Toward Practical Nursing

If you鈥檙e ready to begin a healthcare career, the Practical Nursing program at Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 Penn Township (Export) campus provides a clear and supportive pathway. With structured training, clinical experience, and licensure preparation, practical nursing can be your entry point into a rewarding healthcare profession.

Laurel Technical Institute, Uniontown鈥檚 local career and technical school, celebrated its 40th year on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Marking four decades since its founding in 1985, Laurel used this milestone not just to commemorate its growth from a single campus to six locations, but primarily to express gratitude for the trust, collaboration, and support received from local families, employers, and government partners. Laurel welcomed local Premier Employee Partners, students and alumni, local dignitaries, and dedicated community members to celebrate with a specialized career fair and luncheon in the Laurel Center.

When Laurel Business Institute first opened its doors in 1985, it operated with just a handful of programs focused on secretarial, accounting, and banking skills. Nancy Decker, President and CEO for Laurel, recalls, 鈥淢y late husband, Chris Decker, was the head of HR for Gallatin Bank and was tired of not having qualified candidates to work, so he decided we were going to start a school and train them, and we did!鈥� Over the years, the institution has successfully navigated technological shifts and economic cycles, constantly adapting its curriculum to remain on the cutting edge of industry requirements.

During the Luncheon, Nancy Decker and son, Dr. Douglas Decker took time to reflect on special memories and recognize students, employers, and faculty members with awards and gratitude toward the support they have seen over the years. First to be recognized by Uniontown鈥檚 Campus Director, McKenna Gower,听 were the Distinguished Graduates for the class of January 2026. Gower expressed pride for the award recipients, recognizing their hard work, great attendance, and willingness to be helpful to their instructors and classmates. Candidates must also have a QPA of 3.0, and at least 90% attendance. She recognized Practical Nursing graduate, Kevin Hendrix, and Lucas Stevens, Welding & Fabrication graduate with a certificate of achievement.

Next to be recognized was one of Laurel鈥檚 Premier Employer Partners, Automated Logic. Automated Logic and the 91福利社 partnered to help build a new generation of technicians while outfitting campuses in three states with the latest technology in building automation systems. Dr. Decker thanked Automated Logic for their dedication and willingness to provide training and equipment to the campuses.

Finally, Ms. Nancy Decker presented a special Presidential Award to Mrs. Bonnie Marsh, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Executive Director. Nancy states, 鈥淭he Presidential Award is presented to someone who exceeds expectations and believes in the quality and effectiveness of the work we do here. The recipient displays helpful and听 responsible management skills for the team they work with, while being supportive and compassionate to the community of Laurel.鈥�

鈥淐elebrating 40 years is truly a humbling experience, and it鈥檚 a moment of reflection and deep gratitude,鈥� said Dr. Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer for Laurel. 鈥淲e held this event to honor the trinity that we do this for: our students, our employers, and our community. 鈥�

Along with students, employers, and alumni, Laurel was also joined for this celebration by local dignitaries such as State Senator, Pat Stefano, who recognized Laurel鈥檚 40 years of business and community involvement with a certification of recognition. Also joining Laurel to present a certificate of recognition was Debbie Hoone, a representative from Charity Grimm Krupa House of Representative member. Finally welcomed up to present Laurel with a certificate of appreciation was Fayette County Commissioner Vince Vicites. Ms. Nancy Decker and son, Dr. Douglas Decker, were honored to accept these recognitions and extremely pleased to have such great advocates for local business and education in attendance.

Laurel offers more than 20 educational programs designed with input from local industry advisory boards. This ensures that every certification, degree, or diploma earned is highly valued in the current industries. Programs range from practical nursing and respiratory therapy, to welding and electrical technician, computer network security, and cosmetology arts. In response to the growth and changes that Laurel has seen, earlier in 2025, they announced that the naming convention of Laurel Business Institute would modernize to Laurel Technical Institute. This specific naming convention for LTI, Laurel Technical Institute, has been part of the Laurel school system since 2009, with locations in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The impetus for the change after 40 years, is the addition of a new satellite location of the Uniontown campus in Penn Township, located in Northern Westmoreland County. Nancy Decker, said that 鈥楾he timing was right with the launch of our new location to bring all of our Pennsylvania schools together under one name.鈥�

As Laurel Technical Institute steps into its fifth decade, the institution is reaffirming its commitment to future innovation. Plans are underway to integrate more specialized training programs ensuring Laurel remains a relevant and vital resource for the workforce of tomorrow and the students who want the opportunity to make an impact on the community and their future.

鈥淥ur commitment remains to the communities across our six campuses,鈥� states Dr. Decker, 鈥淲e will continue to listen, adapt, and invest in the resources necessary to keep our programs relevant and the opportunity accessible. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for 40 incredible years. We look forward to continuing growth and legacy for many decades to come.鈥�

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited as 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges,听Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,800 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

PENN TOWNSHIP, P.A., JULY 9, 2025 鈥� In an effort to meet the growing need for nursing staff in local healthcare systems, Laurel Technical Institute is excited to announce the addition of its twelve-month Practical Nurse program to the new Penn Township location. Classes will start this September in the brand new, 15,000 square foot facility, located near Murrysville, just outside of Pittsburgh. For 40 years, LTI has delivered high-quality healthcare and nursing education to the Southwestern and Northwestern regions of Pennsylvania. This location gives communities closer to Pittsburgh the opportunity to experience LTI closer to home. Students will learn current industry skills in the new simulation lab before beginning their direct client care clinicals, which are coordinated and supervised by Laurel鈥檚 faculty and local clinical partners.

鈥淭his program offers a unique curriculum designed to provide the student with clinical and simulation experiences up to four days a week prior to graduation,鈥� states Dr. Michelle Borland, Vice President of Nursing for Laurel, 鈥淭his will better prepare the student for the role of the practical nurse in today鈥檚 healthcare environments in long-term, acute and primary care settings鈥� This 12-month diploma program is offered to students in Penn Township and surrounding areas, the campus is located at 1100 Randall Court, Suite 100 in Export, PA. It provides students access to a new learning simulation lab and provides hands-on experience that students will utilize throughout the program to prepare them for certifications, critical thinking, and patient care. The curriculum students will take includes courses in Nutrition Therapy, Fundamentals of Nursing, Human Growth & Development, Medical Surgical Nursing, Certification Prep and much more! With small class sizes and great faculty, Laurel has high hopes of helping build great healthcare workers for the community and surrounding areas!

In addition, Laurel Business Institute has established healthcare affiliations with WVU Medicine-Uniontown Hospital, Ruby Memorial Hospital, Mon Health Hospital, We Care, as well as Independence Health Westmoreland Hospital and Jefferson Hospital. We also have great partnerships with Mt. Macrina, LaFayette Manor, Quality Life Services -South Fayette Nursing Center, and Henry Clay Villa. The students of Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 healthcare programs will receive invaluable clinical experiences from all affiliations.

Co-located in the Penn Trafford School District鈥檚 Administrative building, the satellite location of LTI Uniontown also offers programs such as Electrical Technician and Computer Network Security Technology. 鈥淲e opened a school in Penn Township because we learned that the community and employers in the Route 22 corridor are rapidly expanding and in need of more highly trained technical and allied health professionals,鈥� said Nancy Decker, president of 91福利社. 鈥淲e鈥檙e excited about being in this region because of the partnerships that we have forged with Penn Trafford School District and local employers. To sustain the growth in the area, the community is in need of skilled technicians so businesses can continue to grow and serve the community鈥檚 residents. The community has been extremely welcoming and supportive of this location. Furthermore, being born and raised in Westmoreland County, we felt a strong connection to this area, and it was the perfect fit for us.鈥�

Conveniently located in Bushy Run Corporate Park, Laurel Technical Institute is a short drive from the intersection of Route 22 and Route 66 in Export, PA. For more information, visit www.laurel.edu or call 724-439-4900. Laurel is excitedly accepting applications for our September 8th class start! Find more information on the program and admission requirements at laurel.edu/laurel.edu/practical-nursing.

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute, LCOT is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, provisionally accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

About Automated Logic: Automated Logic Corporation provides innovative building management solutions that maximize energy efficiency and sustainable building operation while ensuring comfort. Its intuitive products control and monitor building functions such as heating, air conditioning and lighting for commercial office, education, health care, government and data center markets through a global network of independent dealers and North American branch offices. Automated Logic is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, the leading global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable and intelligent building and cold chain solutions. For more information, visit听听or follow听听on听.

About Carrier Founded by the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier is a world leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Carrier experts provide sustainable solutions, integrating energy-efficient products, building controls and energy services for residential, commercial, retail, transport and food service customers. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions that matter for people and our planet for generations to come. For more information, visit听听or follow us on听听and听听on X.

About Laurel:听 Founded in 1985 as Laurel Technical Institute is a private, post-secondary, specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with five locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, South Carolina and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and awarded 鈥楨ssential Workforce Skills (EWS) Level II’ credentialing;听 Laurel has over 525 current students and 5,800 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, and technology. Learn more at听.

LAUREL BUSINESS INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES NAME CHANGE TO LAUREL TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

UNIONTOWN, P.A., April 10, 2025 – After 40 years, Laurel Business Institute has modernized its name to Laurel Technical Institute. 鈥楾hat鈥檚 right, LBI is now LTI,鈥欌�櫶� said Doug Decker, COO for the 91福利社. The naming convention for LTI, Laurel Technical Institute, has been part of the Laurel school system since 2009, presiding over their locations in Northwestern Pennsylvania.听

The original Uniontown location has been Laurel Business Institute since its inception in 1985. At that time, the school housed mainly business-related programs, including secretarial studies, accounting, data processing, and others. However, over the years, as technology and the community鈥檚 needs in the workforce have evolved, so did Laurel. The school rapidly expanded into computer technology, medical and allied health programs which now includes nursing, cosmetology, skilled trades and many more. Therefore, adopting the name of its sister school made sense for the organization to better align its name with the program offerings.听

The impetus for the change after 40 years, is the addition of a new satellite location of the Uniontown campus in Penn Township located in Northern Westmoreland county. Nancy Decker, President and CEO of the Laurel schools, said that 鈥楾he timing was right with the launch of our new location to bring all of our Pennsylvania schools together under one name.鈥� Laurel is in the process this spring of updating signage and facades around their three building, 4-acre, 80,000-square-foot campus located downtown. The school plans to hold an open house event later this spring to display their continued commitment to and investment in Fayette County. Later this year, Laurel plans to hold a showcase to celebrate the school鈥檚 40th anniversary and recognize alumni and the employer community鈥檚 longtime support of the organization.听

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited as 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges,听Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,800 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

will Train Students for In-Demand Careers.

Export, PA听 (March 21, 2025) 鈥� , formerly known as Laurel Business Institute, is opening a new educational facility at 1100 Randall Court, Suite 100, in Export, Penn Township, Westmoreland County.听 A well-known family of post-secondary technical schools founded in Uniontown, PA in 1985, LTI is extending its footprint to the residents of and surrounding areas. Co-located in the Penn Trafford School District鈥檚 Administrative building, the satellite location of LTI Uniontown will offer programs such as Electrical Technician, Computer Network Security Technology, and healthcare programs at the new site. The school plans to begin the first classes in May with other class starts in July and September. An Open House will be held on Apr 3, 2025 from 2PM-6PM to offer interested students a glimpse of the new facility, meet faculty and staff and ask questions about their interested program of study.听

鈥淲e opened a school in because we learned that the community and employers in the Route 22 corridor are rapidly expanding and in need of more highly trained technical and allied health professionals,鈥� said Nancy Decker, president of 91福利社. 鈥淲e鈥檙e excited about being in this region because of the partnerships that we have forged with Penn Trafford School District and local employers. To sustain the growth in the area, the community is in need of skilled technicians so businesses can continue to grow and serve the community鈥檚 residents. The community has been extremely welcoming and supportive of this location. Furthermore, being born and raised in Westmoreland County, we felt a strong connection to this area, and it was the perfect fit for us.鈥�

, the Laurel family of schools, including Laurel College of Technology, Laurel Business Institute (LBI), and Laurel Technical Institute (LTI), is a well-known post-secondary technical school organization that offers hands-on training and small class sizes, taught by highly skilled and experienced instructors.听Laurel convenes annual program advisory committees composed of local employer and community stakeholders to evaluate and review the curriculum as well as guide the institution鈥檚 development.

In addition to the new Penn Township school, Laurel has four other locations throughout Pennsylvania, South Carolina and West Virginia, including Fort Mill, Hermitage, Morgantown, and Uniontown. In addition to licensure by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, Laurel is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools under the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the State of West Virginia. Students are eligible to apply to participate in federal and state financial aid programs as the school is accredited nationally by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. In addition, was named as one of the top 25 two-year trade schools by.

Other specialized associate degree programs are offered online through Laurel College of Technology, LBI, and LTI, including Medical Lab Technician, Medical Billing and Coding, Accounting and Business Administration, Cloud Computing, and Early Childhood Education. On-ground programs offered at various Laurel schools include Nursing; Respiratory Therapy; Skilled Trades, such as Electrical and Welding; Cosmetology; Computer Networking; and Culinary Arts. The school has plans to add more programs in the future.

Enrollment for the first class in Penn Township is currently underway, with the next class starting in May 2025.听 Prospective students are invited to visit Laurel鈥檚 website, , to schedule a personal tour of the new facility Monday 鈥� Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 听

Conveniently located in Bushy Run Corporate Park,听 Laurel Technical Institute is a short drive from the intersection of Route 22 and Route 66 in Export, PA.听 For more information, visit听www.laurel.edu or call 724-439-4900.

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Technical Institute is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited as 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges,听Laurel has over 525 current students and 5,800 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

Fort Mill, S.C., FEB 25, 2024听鈥� Laurel Institute of Technology opened enrollment for its new Electrical System Technician program in the Fall of 2024. This program was brought to the campus to meet the growing need for skilled trade professionals in the area. In this 12-month diploma program, students will learn important skills such as basic wiring concepts, low-voltage wiring, load calculations, motor control, and more! The program is housed in Laurel鈥檚 new Fort Mill campus, located at 345 Patricia Lane, Suite 105, in Fort Mill, SC. To begin the late fall semester in 2024, Laurel excitedly welcomed new instructors Marc Cordone and Charlie Buchannan.

Originally from Connecticut, Cordone moved to Fort Mill in 2023, looking for a change in scenery. He attended a vocational high school with a trades program that introduced him to the electrical field. After high school, Cordone started an apprenticeship and has been in the field for the last ten years. Cordone states, 鈥淢y favorite part of being an electrician is that the field is always changing and evolving with new technology鈥︹�� Overall, he really enjoys the challenge of problem-solving. Cordone also states. 鈥淏eing an instructor in the Electrical Systems Technician program here at Laurel, I really look forward to working with students and inspiring them to join the trades field.鈥�

In the photo: Marc Cordone, Laurel Institute of Technology Trades Instructor

Buchanan was born in Columbus, Mississippi, but was raised in Lancaster, South Carolina. After 16 years of service to the U.S. Navy, Buchanan began work as a field service technician, stating, 鈥淚 like the variety of projects in this field, kind of like a box of chocolates. You get a new one every time you open the box!鈥� He also states, 鈥淚 look forward to helping students navigate their own path and pass down wisdom to help them achieve their goals.鈥�

In the photo: Charlie Buchanan, 91福利社 of Technology Trades Instructor听

The new Electrical System Technician diploma program highlights the development of skills necessary for individuals to install and maintain electrical systems in unique lab spaces designed for real-life simulation & response etiquette, led by a strong team of instructors with years of in-field experience. The 12-month program is also designed to prepare students for certifications, including the NCCER Core & Electrical 1 – 4, NFPA 70e Low Voltage Safety, and OSHA 10 certification. The program will also emphasize special features of various electrical systems and demonstrate diagnostic procedures to determine the causes of electrical failures.

鈥淥ur program provides an interactive learning environment and incorporates a strong foundation of electrical knowledge, proper and safe equipment handling techniques, and preparation for five different industry certifications.鈥� states Justin Caldwell, Director of Trades for 91福利社, 鈥淥ur goal is to provide each student with an ever-evolving opportunity for growth and education, and we鈥檙e excited to offer that within this program.鈥�

This 12-month diploma program is offered to students in Fort Mill, South Carolina, and surrounding areas. The Electrical Systems Technician program curriculum includes courses in Residential Wiring Concepts, Industrial Wiring, Low Voltage Wiring, Voice / Data and Video Installation, PLC Programming, Certification Prep, and much more! With small class sizes and experienced faculty, Laurel has high hopes of helping build great entry-level graduates for the community and surrounding areas!

Conveniently located in Fort Mill, SC, Laurel Institute of Technology is a short drive from Interstate I-77 (Exits 88 or 85) off of Highway 160. This location is the newest addition to Laurel鈥檚 growing network of听 private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE). For more information, visit听laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.