Penn Hills High School Introduces PHorge Academy, an Innovative Launchpad to Cutting-Edge Careers

March 14, 2025 – Penn Hills – The Penn Hills School District is proud to announce the launch of PHorge Academy at Penn Hills High School, a groundbreaking initiative designed to provide students with a personalized, career-focused education that aligns with the demands of today's workforce.

PHorge is more than just an academy—it's a launchpad for future leaders, creators, and innovators in business, robotics, information technology, and healthcare. Designed to redefine education, PHorge fuses hands-on learning, cutting-edge technology, and industry-driven pathways to prepare students for real-world success. PHorge is more than a school—it's a movement.

Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are now open, with the program initially launching for both juniors and seniors. This marks a significant step in revolutionizing education by integrating specialized, technology-driven programs that prepare students for the future. In the 2026-2027 school year, PHorge Academy will expand to include sophomores. 

At the core of PHorge Academy is what will be Pennsylvania's first dedicated robotics academy, an innovative program providing hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials. The robotics curriculum focuses on three key components:

• Certifications & Pre-Apprenticeship: Earn industry-recognized certifications and complete a Robotics Technician Pre-Apprenticeship and an Industrial Manufacturing Technician Pre-Apprenticeship.
• Hands-On Learning: Real-world projects using state-of-the-art robotics technology. 
• Industry Partnerships: Opportunities for mentorship and networking with industry leaders, setting the stage for future careers. 

While PHorge Academy's initial focus is on business, robotics, information technology, and healthcare, plans are already underway to expand its offerings to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. 

The Penn Hills School District invites the community and media to learn more at the event, 'PHorging a New Path' on Thursday, March 27 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Penn Hills High School. 

For more information, contact Lydia Richardson at lricha@phsd.org.