What is Pennco Tech?
Founded in 1973, Pennco Tech is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education in a wide variety of technical and trade fields, with programs ranging from automotive technology to welding and even medical assisting.
Its focus is primarily on in-person, hands-on instruction at its Blackwood, NJ, and Bristol, PA locations, where students learn one-on-one from instructors to become familiar with equipment and tools in their fields.
Pennco Tech ensures its students are well prepared for success – the majority of its students complete a program and are employed within a year, making for a seamless transition from education to the workforce.
Is it legit?
Pennco Tech is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. It is also an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) authorized outreach training program.
The school is also partnered with a number of highly reputable national corporations in the technical fields, providing students with a wide variety of employment opportunities.
Is it worth it?
Pennco Tech’s alumni network goes far beyond its 16,000 graduates across the country; its Pennco for Life program allows all alumni to receive further education as needed to keep professional skills current at zero cost. For example, a 2015 graduate in the electrician program could return for free this year to keep knowledge of technology and equipment current.
Furthermore, the cost of education and financial aid opportunities make attending the school incredibly worthwhile financially – over 80% of students receive financial aid.
Pennco Tech Acceptance Rate
Pennco Tech’s acceptance rate for both of its locations is 100%, according to Niche. Applicants must have earned a high school diploma or GED and attend an on-site interview with one of the school’s admissions representatives.
Cost Per Year
The school’s tuition varies based on specifics like duration and specific program, but the average cost ranges from around $10,000 for shorter, 18-26 week programs (such as medical assistant and pharmacy technician programs) to around $25,000 for longer, 52-75 week programs, such as their automotive technology program.
This is significantly lower than comparable institutions, and is even more affordable with the wide variety of scholarships and financial aid options the school offers.
Pennco Tech vs. Community College
Pennco Tech stands out as a superior alternative to community colleges through its focus on specialized hands-on training opportunities and dedication to student success in its Career Services department and Pennco for Life program.
While community colleges can provide a broad academic spectrum, Pennco Tech provides far more specialized education and better prepares students for real working situations – instructors are additionally all industry professionals themselves, and are far better equipped to ready students for work in their fields.
Additionally, the school’s Career Services department is dedicated to helping graduates secure employment, with national partners like Carmax and Ryder. As mentioned, the Pennco for Life program further emphasizes the school’s commitment to the success of its alumni, offering lifetime support in the way of career assistance and further courses.
School Catalog
Pennco Tech’s Bristol campus catalog can be found here.
Pennco Tech’s Blackwood campus catalog can be found here.
School Hours
A number of the school’s programs are offered in both standard day course and evening course options, highly beneficial for those with more demanding schedules in need of flexible programs. Programs are also offered as both full-time and part-time.
Its campus and student services hours are 7:30 AM – 10 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and 7:30 AM – 4 PM on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Programs & Courses
Healthcare
- Medical Assistant
- Pharmacy Technician
Automotive
- Automotive Technology
Trucking & Transportation
- Diesel Technology
HVAC & Building Services
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Plumbing
Campus Locations
Blackwood, NJ 99 Erial Rd., Blackwood, NJ 08012
Bristol, PA 3815 Otter St., Bristol, PA 19007
Financial Aid Services
Advisors help enrollees access resources to pay for Pennco Tech classes. One-on-one counseling, workshops on debt management, and loan orientations are all available. Financial Officers take a personalized approach as they guide applicants through the FAFSA and determine their federal tuition aid options.
Career Services
Faculty begins preparing students from day one. Specialists assist with job search tips, interview skills, and career development. Each area of study has an advisory committee of local businesses to ensure the curriculum is up to date and relevant. Pennco Tech also has a mailing list for postings of entry-level jobs.
Veteran and Military Services
Pennco Tech offers educational assistance to veterans and their spouses. Known as a military-friendly school, financial aid consultants will work alongside students to obtain the funding they need to pursue a trade. Staff can help with Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, as well as MyCAA grants.
Alumni Services
Hiring companies work closely with the school to recruit graduates. Along with those nearby, national employers can give Pennco Tech notice of job openings. This creates many placement opportunities through a network that matches alumni to careers.