Porter and Chester Institute Celebrates 80 Years of Building Futures—One Student at a Time
In 2026, Porter and Chester Institute (PCI) proudly celebrates 80 years of career-focused education, marking a milestone that reflects decades of dedication to student success, workforce development, and hands-on learning.
What began in 1946 as the Porter School of Engineering Design in Hartford, Connecticut has grown into a respected institution serving students across Connecticut and Massachusetts, with programs designed to meet real employer needs. For eight decades, PCI has remained committed to one mission: building futures—one student at a time.
A Legacy Rooted in Hands-On Career Training
Since its founding, Porter and Chester Institute has adapted alongside changing industries while staying true to its purpose. From skilled trades to healthcare and technology, PCI has consistently focused on practical, career-driven education led by industry-experienced instructors.
Today, PCI offers hands-on training programs that prepare students for in-demand careers, combining classroom instruction with real-world lab experience. This approach has helped thousands of graduates gain the skills, confidence, and opportunity to succeed in the workforce.
Supporting Students at Every Stage of Their Journey
At the heart of PCI’s 80-year legacy are the students themselves. Whether learners are starting fresh, changing careers, or returning to education later in life, PCI provides support beyond the classroom.
Students benefit from:
- Career-focused curriculum aligned with employer needs
- Dedicated instructors with real industry experience
- Career services support, including resume help and interview preparation
- A learning environment built for hands-on success
This student-centered approach is why PCI’s impact extends well beyond graduation—helping individuals build meaningful careers and better futures for themselves and their families.
Serving Communities Across Connecticut and Massachusetts
With multiple campus locations across New England, Porter and Chester Institute plays an important role in strengthening local communities. By training skilled professionals in high-demand fields, PCI helps meet regional workforce needs while supporting local employers and industries.
Through partnerships with businesses, healthcare providers, and community organizations, PCI continues to bridge the gap between education and employment—one student at a time.
Looking Ahead: The Future of PCI
As PCI celebrates 80 years, the focus remains firmly on the future. The Institute continues to evolve its programs, technology, and teaching methods to ensure students are prepared for tomorrow’s workforce.
Throughout the year, PCI will recognize this milestone by:
- Highlighting alumni success stories
- Celebrating faculty and staff who make the mission possible
- Showcasing the impact PCI has made across generations
While much has changed since 1946, PCI’s core purpose remains the same: to empower students through education and help them build lasting careers.
Looking Ahead: The Future of PCI
Eighty years later, Porter and Chester Institute stands as a testament to what’s possible when education, industry, and student support come together. As PCI looks ahead to the next chapter, it does so with gratitude for its past and excitement for the futures still being built—one student at a time. To learn more about PCI- www.porterchester.edu