Penn College Kiln Project

Project Details

The Penn College Kiln Project in Williamsport, Lycoming County, involved the purchase of a new lumber dry kiln chamber and consumables to enhance the Forest Technology program at Pennsylvania College of Technology. This project aimed to augment the hands-on curriculum for students enrolled in the two-year Forest Technology major, providing them with practical experience and improved educational resources.

Key features of the kiln project included:

1. New Kiln Chamber: The new kiln chamber provides 90 inches of inside kiln width, more than 140 square feet of interior space, two kiln carts, and a combination track. These features significantly enhance the students’ learning experience by allowing them to engage with industry-standard equipment.
2. Enhanced Curriculum: The addition of the kiln chamber supports the Forest Technology program’s curriculum, which covers the theory and practice of kiln drying, products, and career opportunities in the wood products industry.

The project received financial support from various sources, including industry groups, wood products companies, and alumni and friends of Penn College and Williamsport Area Community College. The Lumber Heritage Region contributed $5,000 through its 2016 Mini-Grant Program, with additional funding from the Keystone Wood Products Association (KWPA) and Penn College.

By providing state-of-the-art equipment, the Penn College Kiln Project helps ensure that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for careers in the wood products industry. The project underscores the importance of practical, hands-on learning in technical education and supports the long-standing tradition of excellence in Penn College’s Forest Technology program.