Before this partnership, Penn State Altoona had viewed the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown as a competitor. This made it difficult for Penn State to address the workforce development needs of Johnstown residents, according to Curley. Curley initially contacted Jon Darling, director of community outreach in Johnstown, about the partnership. A partnership among openly competitive universities is unique, according to Wesley E. Donahue, director of Management Development Programs and Services at Penn State. Donahue also noted that management and workforce development educational programs differ from traditional undergraduate or graduate instruction.
Practical knowledge is the focus of learning.
This is best presented by a variety of faculty and instructors who can share their expertise and diverse viewpoints with students. The philosophy of workforce development education is founded on the belief that pooling knowledge and resources is the best way to meet the professional development needs of the workforce. The collaboration between these universities galvanizes expertise and resources from both institutions and provides comprehensive, cutting-edge programs for participants. Programs include basic supervisory leadership, as well as problem solving and priority management. The partnership is a model of collaboration between two high-quality institutions.