Presenters:

• Mr. Evan Mock, Workforce Coordinator, TEC Centro
• Mrs. Sarah Altland, Recruitment Specialist, UPMC Pathways to Work.

Event Date: May 22, 2025

Event Location: TEC Centro, Harrisburg, PA

ISC’s Representatives: Zahra Sultani, Hadia Azizi, Dyna Mohmand, Ivanna Mozil, Olena Ivashchuk, Diana Nikitina, Andres Vega and Rhute Dumersier.

TEC Centro is a premier bilingual workforce training center in Central Pennsylvania, dedicated to empowering underserved communities through education, career development, and economic mobility. The center plays a vital role in providing culturally responsive training and direct pathways to employment for individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

On behalf of TEC Centro, Mr. Evan Mock presented an overview of the center’s mission to advance workforce equity through industry-specific training, ESL education, and job placement. He introduced attendees to Fall 2025 training programs, including Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Phlebotomy Technician, Medical Assistant, HVAC, Plumbing, and Facilities Maintenance. TEC Centro’s English as a Second Language (ESL) programs were also highlighted as critical tools for professional integration and workforce readiness.

Mr. Mock emphasized the organization’s personalized approach to career development. Every student enrolled in TEC Centro programs receives job placement support aligned with their training and goals. He also noted the center’s commitment to supporting internationally educated professionals in regaining meaningful employment within the U.S. workforce.

Following  Mr. Mock’s  Presentation by Mrs. Sarah Altland – UPMC Pathways to Work.

Mrs. Sarah Altland, Recruitment Specialist at UPMC, shared a comprehensive overview of the Pathways to Work and UPMC Scholars Program, highlighting how UPMC is actively removing employment barriers for underrepresented job seekers.

Key Highlights:

• UPMC Scholars Program:
  • Partnerships with local institutions: Millersville University, Central Penn College, Lancaster Medical Center
  • Tuition reimbursement for certifications in Radiology Tech, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Tech, etc.
  • Student loan repayment and a two-year work agreement at UPMC
• Pathways to Work Program:
  • Free resume and cover letter workshops
  • Interpreter services and bilingual hiring assistance
  • Entry-level jobs available without a high school diploma or fluent English
  • Easy access via email referral (pathwaystowork@upmc.edu)

Sarah reinforced UPMC’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—emphasizing the high value placed on bilingual applicants fluent in Spanish, Nepali, or French Creole. Once hired, UPMC employees also receive:

• Up to $6,000 per year in tuition assistance (full-time)
• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401K)
• Flexible schedules, especially in casual and entry-level roles

In addition to her presentation, Sarah also hosted a Community Partner Update Meeting on May 22nd at TEC Centro Capital Region. This session welcomed 17 different community organizations from across the central Pennsylvania region. Attendees were provided with updates on the 2025 goals for Pathways to Work, regional hiring achievements, and strategies to strengthen referral partnerships. The meeting further demonstrated UPMC’s commitment to collaborative growth and building inclusive employment pathways in the region.

The session concluded with a strong sense of community, collaboration, and hope. Participants expressed appreciation for the resources and guidance offered by TEC Centro and UPMC, leaving inspired and informed about their future possibilities. TEC Centro continues to stand as a vital hub for economic opportunity, bridging the gap between talent and employment in Harrisburg and beyond. ISC looks forward to building on this partnership to support inclusive, sustainable career pathways for all.

Reported by : Zahra Sultani