Is Lawrence County (PA) a place where you can find a good job?

Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, like many counties in western Pennsylvania, faces the challenge of aligning its workforce with in-demand industries. Identifying and prioritizing high-demand occupations is crucial for both economic growth and individual career success.

The good news is that economic opportunities are here, jobs are here, and training is here. We at LCCTC see ourselves as part of the solution. Several high priority occupations are available in Lawrence County.

In order to be considered a high priority occupations, we look at job growth, wage potential, and skill level. Many occupations in Lawrence County have significant projected employment growth in the coming years. This indicates a strong demand for skilled workers. In addition to the potential for growth, the occupation typically has to offer competitive salaries that provide a decent standard of living. Finally, these occupations require specialized skills and training is often prioritized, as they may involve higher earning potential and greater job security.

Some of the consistently high-priority occupations in Lawrence County and surrounding regions often include health care professionals, manufacturing workers, transportation and logistics, as well as technology. These jobs across the spectrum of training from on-the-job training, to certifications, to associate degrees, to college degrees. The bottom line is that there is a job for someone who wants to be gainfully employed and willing to have a skill that meets the demand.

Healthcare professionals are in demand in Lawrence County. The county needs registered nurses. This can be accomplished through a hospital program with UPMC or attain a BSN through a partnership between UPMC and Westminster College. Our students at LCCTC have the opportunity to earn a Certified Nurse Aide through our health assistant program.?

Lawrence County is still home to quality jobs in the manufacturing sector. Lawrence County needs welders, machinists, electricians, carpenters and industrial maintenance mechanics. We at LCCTC have approved programs in welding, machining, electrical occupations, and the building trades. If you are not in high school and looking for a trade, see our good friends at the New Caste School of Trades. Our industry partners at the Ellwood Group will hire prospective candidates and pay them to get the skills they need while attending the Pennsylvania College of Technology. You do not need to run for 1,000 yards or dunk a basketball to get a scholarship.

Still not convinced. Well wait, there is more. Lawrence County has transportation jobs. There is a high demand for both local and long-haul trucking.? Many businesses in Lawrence County are showing an increased demand for warehouse workers related to the increased demand for e-commerce and supply chain logistics.

The jobs of the 21st century are in Lawrence County. Business needs computer support specialists, information security analysts, and other associated jobs. Here at LCCTC our management information systems program can serve as a gateway to those careers. Our students leave LCCTC with certifications from Microsoft, Adobe, and others.

Salary ranges for these occupations can vary significantly based on factors like experience, education, and employer. However, here are some general estimates:

• Registered Nurses: $76,000-$80,000 per year
• Home Health Aides: $35,000 - $40,000 per year
• Physical Therapists: $70,000 - $100,000 per year
• Welders: $35,000 - $60,000 per year
• Machinists: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
• Truck Drivers: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
• Computer Support Specialists: $45,000 - $75,000 per year
• Information Security Analysts: $70,000 - $110,000 per year

In some, good jobs abound in Lawrence County. We at LCCTC continue to produce about 135 college and career ready students that can participate in the local economy. The next time someone complains about the lack of employment in Lawrence County. Hit them with the facts. We at LCCTC are rising and so is our community!