A lot has changed since the origin of Pennsylvania College of Technology in 1914.  But one thing has remained steadfast – the college’s relentless commitment to answering the call for skilled workers.  From the original woodworking courses to support the lumber boom to present-day programs to fill the skills gap, the institution continues to adapt and meet changing demands through hands-on education.

The college’s original vocational programs were nationally recognized for fighting joblessness during the Great Depression.  By 1941, the real-world approach to learning gained momentum and evolved into the Williamsport Technical Institute.  This created the bedrock for one of the state’s first community colleges, the Williamsport Area Community College (WACC).  Founded in 1965, WACC continued to uphold the institution’s core values, providing a bridge between the classroom and the workforce through applied technology education. 

In 1989, the organization evolved again and emerged as Pennsylvania College of Technology.  With 100+ hands-on programs from IT and nursing to welding and automotive, the college’s hands-on legacy and commitment to real-world training continues to thrive and prepare graduates for in-demand careers.  Learn more pct.edu.

Room 109, “THE WORKING CLASS ROOM,” gives tribute to the college and a century of evolution.  The room is named after the fourth book in Penn College’s Centennial Series: “Working Class: 100 Years of Hands-On Education.”

This wonderful collection of images and information was written by Elaine J. Lambert.  She states that the book “captures stories that embrace the dignity of a ‘working class’ defined not only as a group of individuals contributing to the workforce, but also as a teaching and learning experience that puts general education into practice through relevant, hands-on activities in classrooms, shops, and laboratories.”

“THE WORKING CLASS ROOM” (Room 109) has several unique features including a one-of-a-kind shower, crafted from an original vintage city hall vault.  The welcoming layout also incorporates a working nook, an ideal spot to have your morning coffee, strike up a conversation, or catch up with emails.

Our new “LEGACY” rooms are quite unique with their large windows, soft colors, and “outside-the-box” layouts.  Private toilet/shower rooms are brightly lit as well, and the original charm and character of this old city hall adds to the beauty of each room. These new rooms also share a small foyer along with a private conference room (code-accessible), called “THE HANGAR.”

City Hall Grand Hotel would like to extend our gratitude and recognize the Pennsylvania College of Technology and a generous group of ladies representing the college who have allowed us to bring a century of history to our guests, not only in Room 109, but in “The Hangar” as well.  The efforts of Nicole Warner, Cindy Meixel, Lenore Penfield, and Penny Lutz are very much appreciated.