Draft:Tec Centro Workforce Network
| Formation | 2014 (initial center); network established 2023 |
|---|---|
| Type | 501(c)(3) nonprofit |
| Headquarters | Lancaster, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
Area served | Central Pennsylvania |
Key people | Carlos Graupera (President & CEO) |
| Website | https://teccentroregionalnetwork.com/ |
Tec Centro Workforce Network is a nonprofit coalition of bilingual workforce development centers serving Central Pennsylvania. The model originated in Lancaster in 2014 and expanded into a formal regional network in 2023.[1] The centers provide English language instruction, occupational training, and employment services, particularly for underserved populations.
History
[edit]The first Tec Centro center was established in 2014 by the Spanish American Civic Association (SACA) in Lancaster. It aimed to address workforce gaps by providing bilingual education and job placement programs.[2] In 2023, the model was expanded into a regional network with centralized oversight.
Locations
[edit]As of 2025, the Tec Centro Workforce Network includes the following sites:
- Tec Centro Lancaster Southeast and Southwest
- Tec Centro Lebanon
- Tec Centro Berks (Reading)
- Tec Centro York
- Tec Centro Capital Region (Harrisburg)
Programs
[edit]The network provides training in skilled work such as healthcare, culinary arts, and manufacturing. Services also include English as a Second Language (ESL), adult basic education, job readiness, and employment placement.[1]
Governance and Leadership
[edit]Tec Centro operates under a nonprofit structure with centralized governance and regional advisory boards. Carlos Graupera, founder of the original Lancaster center and former CEO of SACA, became President and CEO of the regional network in 2023.[1]
Partnerships
[edit]The network collaborates with local institutions including Reading Area Community College and Harrisburg Area Community College. Philanthropic support has come from organizations such as M&T Bank and United Way.[3][4]
Future Plans
[edit]As of 2025, Tec Centro is planning to open additional centers in Philadelphia and Wilkes-Barre by 2026.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c Collingwood, Eric (April 17, 2025). "Tec Centro Workforce Network opens Harrisburg location". Central Penn Business Journal.
- ^ a b "PA lawmakers hear of lives changed by Tec Centro in Lancaster". WITF. January 26, 2024.
- ^ Gruver, Joel (April 11, 2025). "Tec Centro York opens renovated workforce center". Central Penn Business Journal.
- ^ Gruver, Joel (May 28, 2025). "Tec Centro Lebanon graduates healthcare workers, opens training suite". Central Penn Business Journal.