DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Pennsylvania House Democrats used a visit to Chester County on Monday to examine how increased state funding for career and technical education is affecting workforce development, as lawmakers continue expanding investment in programs aimed at filling skilled trade jobs.
Members of the House Majority Policy Committee toured the Technical College High School’s Downingtown Campus before holding a roundtable with Chester County Intermediate Unit administrators, educators and school leaders on the impact of recent funding increases.
The visit followed enactment of the 2026-27 state budget, which includes an additional $10 million for career and technical education programs. Since 2023, Pennsylvania has increased funding for those programs by $65 million—nearly 50%—an investment lawmakers credited with expanding access for approximately 3,000 additional students statewide.
Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, D-Chester, who hosted the event, described career and technical education as a way to provide students with multiple pathways after high school while addressing workforce needs.
“Every student deserves access to an education that prepares them for success, whether that’s college, the workforce, or an apprenticeship,” Otten stated. “By increasing funding for career and technical education, we’re increasing opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in fields that are essential to Pennsylvania’s continued growth and success.”
Technical College High School, operated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit, serves students from school districts across Chester County through campuses in Downingtown, Pennock’s Bridge and Pickering. The programs emphasize hands-on training across a range of career fields.
According to CCIU officials, enrollment has grown significantly in recent years, with approximately 3,000 students now attending the three campuses.
House Majority Policy Committee Chairman Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, framed the additional funding as a way to help schools expand programs, modernize equipment and prepare students for high-demand occupations.
“This isn’t just an investment in the future of our students; it’s also an investment in the future of Pennsylvania,” Bizzarro stated.
The roundtable included CCIU Executive Director Dr. George Fiore, Assistant Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Murray, Director of Learning & Leadership Solutions Dr. Sarah Yoder, Director of Career, Technical & Customized Education Dr. Steve Leever, Supervisor of Career, Technical & Customized Education Charlie Haydt, Pennock’s Bridge Campus Principal Ron Wilson and Pickering Campus Principal Chris Knechel.
Students and alumni joined CCIU administrators and staff in leading lawmakers on a tour of the Downingtown campus before the policy discussion.
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