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Why choose the Commonwealth Technical Institute at Hiram G. Andrews Center (CTI at HGAC)?

At CTI at HGAC, education is not confined to the classroom. While most of a student’s time and attention is focused on education and training, job skills are only part of the learning experience. A continuum of support services, ranging from vocational evaluation and career exploration to independent living skills, combine to offer students the skills they will need to live, work and contribute to their communities.

Explore Our Campus
 

Support Services

Classroom education may not be enough for everyone when working in a technical trade. At CTI, we combine traditional education with hands-on exercises and training, so you have the educational experience and confidence when landing your next job. Visit Student Support to learn more.

Career Focused Training

Student success is our top priority at CTI at HGAC. That is why our curriculum is focused on developing: 

  • Core skills (reading, writing, speaking, and computer skills) 
  • Soft skills (communication, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving) 
  • Hard skills relevant to the job search (preparing professional portfolios, resumes, and cover letters and being interviewed)  

We help streamline students from the classroom into their future careers. 

Individualized Career Guidance

As CTI students approach graduation, job preparedness classes include:  

  • Resume and cover letter writing 
  • Portfolio development 
  • Job applications 
  • Use of technology in job search 
  • Effective communication in the workplace 
  • Recorded mock interviews 

Additionally, graduates may have their resumes updated by Career Guidance Counselors at any time following graduation at no charge. 

Affordable Education

Staff at CTI at HGAC are committed to helping every student access the education and career pathway they want. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about available resources to reduce the cost of your education.

Academic Support

The Academic Success Center is geared to support and sustain CTI students as they adjust to a college-level learning environment. Our staff is committed to helping students work toward their academic goals. Services include the following: 

  • Academic advising 
  • Open classrooms/lab hours during evenings and weekends 
  • Workshops in basic study skills 
  • Tutorial services - professional and peer 
  • Academic, financial and personal counseling 
  • Information about career options 
  • Study center tutoring area 
  • Academic collaboration with staff and more 

Industry-Experienced Instructors

Our instructors have industry experience and versatility to provide students with the real-world skills needed on the job.


Accredited Education

We aim to provide the highest quality education for trade-based careers. 

Accreditations 

    • Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) 
    • Commission for the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) 
    • (Certificates of licensure and accreditation are available for review) 

State Approvals and Licenses 

    • Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools 
    • Pennsylvania Department of Education to award degrees of Associate in Specialized Technology and Associate in Specialized Business 
    • Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation Services 
    • Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services 
    • Approved for the Education of Veterans 
    • Pennsylvania Act 101 Equal Educational Opportunity Program 

Program Advisory Committees  

All CTI programs have Program Advisory Committees (PACs) that include individual members from businesses within various industries who represent expertise in specific occupations. Each Program Advisory Committee has made it its mission to review curriculum, advise on state-of-the-art equipment needs, identify the personnel expectations of potential employers and increase opportunities for placement of graduates. 


Our History

Located in suburban Johnstown and covering 12 acres under one roof, HGAC is the world’s first and largest comprehensive vocational rehabilitation facility specializing in education, career and support services for individuals with disabilities. HGAC offers a wealth of individualized services such as pre-employment transition services, counseling, evaluation, physical maximization cognitive therapy, and assistive technology intervention in a barrier-free environment. Onsite post-secondary education is provided at the Commonwealth Technical Institute, which offers three specialized associate degree programs and seven diploma programs. HGAC has achieved worldwide recognition, attracted distinguished visitors from many countries, and provided individualized educational and vocational rehabilitation programs for resident and commuter students since 1959. 

Our Mission

The mission of the Commonwealth Technical Institute at Hiram G. Andrews Center (CTI at HGAC) is to offer quality, individualized post-secondary education, pre-employment transition, and support services to students as they determine and pursue individualized employment goals and independence. 

Take the First Step Toward Your New Future 

Earn a degree or diploma for the future you want with CTI at HGAC. Are you ready to take the next step on your new journey in vocational or skills-based education?
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