Bowling Green State University (BGSU) and Penta Career Center have solidified a partnership aimed at creating clearer pathways for students interested in technical and applied engineering careers. This formal agreement builds upon years of successful collaboration through the College Credit Plus program, enhancing opportunities for students to gain valuable college credit while still in high school.
This expanded partnership focuses on providing students with accessible routes to higher education. Available degree paths include an Associate of Technical Study, an Associate of Science degree, and accelerated pathways leading to bachelor’s degrees in both traditional and applied engineering at BGSU. The collaboration will ensure students at Penta Career Center receive guidance and support in selecting and completing the necessary coursework to seamlessly transition into these programs.
Edward Ewers, superintendent of Penta Career Center, highlighted the importance of this agreement for workforce development. “This agreement allows us to strengthen a pathway for students that directly addresses the growing demand for a skilled workforce within the manufacturing industry,” Ewers stated. “Listening to our industry partners, we recognize the critical need for professionals who possess both technical expertise and advanced academic qualifications. These degree pathways, in partnership with BGSU, are ideally suited for our students seeking post-secondary education while still in their high school years.”
Upon earning an associate degree through this program and gaining admission to BGSU, students can further their education by pursuing any of the twelve bachelor’s degrees offered within BGSU’s College of Technology, Architecture and Applied Engineering. This seamless transition provides a significant advantage for students looking to advance their careers in technical fields.
Wael Mokhtar, dean of the BGSU College of Technology, Architecture and Applied Engineering, emphasized the practical nature of the programs. “These high-demand academic programs are intentionally designed with a strong emphasis on applied, experiential learning, which is particularly beneficial for students who thrive in hands-on learning environments,” said Mokhtar. “We are enthusiastic about the growth of this partnership, which is strategically designed to invigorate Ohio’s economy by expanding access to educational opportunities that directly support the increasing demand for a well-educated and highly skilled workforce.”
Looking ahead, BGSU and Penta Career Center are committed to further innovation. Plans are underway to explore flexible programming options, integrating smart automation training with academic coursework. This forward-thinking approach ensures students are not only earning degrees but also gaining cutting-edge skills that are highly sought after in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. This ongoing collaboration between BGSU and Penta Career Center underscores a shared commitment to empowering students and strengthening the regional workforce through accessible and relevant educational pathways.
