Katherine A. Walker, assistant professor of drafting and computer aided design at Pennsylvania College of Technology, spoke at the Oct. 8 graduation ceremony at the State Correctional Institution at Muncy.
Walker is a longtime member of the institution's academic advisory committee. Her address encouraged the graduates to celebrate their achievements made greater by the obstacles they overcame to attain them and to use their experience to encourage others.
"Many question their ability to succeed in various endeavors. Many are reluctant to take on a new challenge in their life, doubting themselves and frightened of failure," she told them. "However, knowing you and your struggles and the determination that brought you here today, others are strengthened and motivated."
Eighty-nine women earned GED diplomas or certifications in areas such as building trades, introductory CNC machine programming, cosmetology, computer aided design, custodial maintenance, fiber optics and computer skills.
Walker is co-department head of drafting and CAD technology at Penn College. She holds an associate degree in mechanical engineering technology, a bachelor's degree in technology management, and a master's degree in instructional technology, and she has professional experience in drafting and design.
To learn more about the academic programs offered by the School of Industrial and Engineering Technologies at Penn College, visit online or call 570-327-4520. For more about Penn College, visit on the Web , e-mail or call toll-free 800-367-9222.