PCCE- Juniata College; Economic

Position: PCCE- Juniata College (Economic Opportunity)
PCCE
- Juniata College (Economic Opportunity)

The Huntingdon Area School District serves a community where 40% of the Class of '25-'26 plans to enter the workforce immediately after graduation and most residents do not hold a four-year degree. In rural communities, limited access to clear school-to-work pathways contributes to employment barriers, economic instability, and youth out migration. This project, hosted by Juniata College in partnership with HASD, strengthens place-based school-to-work pathways aligned with local workforce needs.

Working with guidance counselors and community partners, the project will improve systems that connect students to employment, training, and credentialing opportunities so young people can build viable futures in their home community. The VISTA member will build HASD's capacity by strengthening partnerships with local employers, workforce agencies, and training providers, and by creating reusable tools such as senior transition checklists, career-readiness resources, funding trackers, and apprenticeship guides that will be embedded into school systems for long-term use.

In Year 1, the Workforce Development Coordinator (WDC) focused on relationship-building and identifying needs. In Year 2, the WDC will finalize a shared Economic Stability Vision and develop a strategic plan for implementation. In Year 3, the WDC will help establish leadership structures to sustain and assess programming long-term. Further help on this page can be found by clicking here.

Member Duties :
The VISTA will prepare and support graduating seniors from Huntingdon Area High School for the workforce or vocational training. During Year 1, the VISTA will be responsible for making connections between the HASD and local employers, resources, and training centers. These connections are essential for building capacity and ensuring sustainability after the project ends. The VISTA will also be expected to research "no-cost" or "low-cost" career training programs, connect students to funding opportunities, and promote paths to success that do not require postsecondary education.

The VISTA member will also document and track graduating student outcomes.

Program Benefits :
On Campus resources and facilities , Health Coverage* , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend , Childcare assistance if eligible , Relocation Allowance , Living Allowance , Training .

Terms :

Permits working at another job during off hours , Permits attendance at school during off hours , Car recommended .

Service Areas :

Community and Economic Development , Health , Education , Environment .

Skills :

Business/Entrepreneur , Community Organization , Fund raising/Grant Writing , Social Services , Leadership , General Skills , Urban Planning , Non-Profit Management , Public Health .