The Trustees of The George I. Alden Trust approved and disbursed a $150,000 grant to Allegheny College to support the Allegheny Lab for Innovation and Creativity @ Bessemer (ALIC @Bessemer). The Trustees seek to support institutions that demonstrate a combination of educational excellence, exciting and forward-looking programming, and efficient and effective administration. They look for projects that contribute significantly to the intellectual growth of students, enhance an institution’s mission, and lead to solid preparation for lifelong learning.
George I. Alden Trust Chair Warner S . Fletcher said, “We were all very excited to see colleges in towns like yours making real bonafide efforts to help the community in which you reside stronger and better.” He went on to say, “We hope that hands-on learning in this particular area will be measurably beneficial to the industries and companies in the Meadville area and that new businesses will result for these members of your community through this effort.
ALIC @ Bessemer brings Allegheny College’s educational mission to the community by equipping the regional workforce with the technical and operational skills needed for today’s advanced manufacturing sector.
In line with its commitment to Northwestern Pennsylvania’s economy, ALIC @ Bessemer provides affordable, fast-track educational opportunities for non-degree-seeking students, directly addressing the workforce needs of the manufacturing community. Over the coming months and years, ALIC will expand its offerings in response to input from industry leaders, driving economic growth and long-term prosperity.
Byron Rich, Assistant Provost, Academic Innovation & Associate Professor of Art, who leads the development of ALIC, stated, “This grant allows us to expand access to state-of-the-art additive manufacturing equipment for training, research, and shared use. We’re excited to work with our industry partners to create opportunities that will keep NWPA at the heart of American manufacturing.”
Spring 2025 Workshops are now open for registration. ALIC will offer a series of high-impact training courses designed to equip individuals with in-demand skills for today’s evolving workforce. Courses will sharpen technical expertise or build foundational knowledge and include:
- Mastercam Fundamentals – Learn industry-standard CAD/CAM software used in aerospace and advanced manufacturing through real-world projects. No prior experience required.
- Additive Manufacturing Fundamentals – Explore 3D printing technology, materials, and applications in various industries through hands-on training in our state-of-the-art Markforged lab
Registration is open for these affordable, high-value courses designed to advance careers, support local businesses, and drive economic growth.
