WCCC marks opening of Bob Miner advanced manufacturing lab

The lab, named after former Donegal Construction Corp. CEO Robert “Bob” Miner, a Monessen native, offers training in a variety of skills needed for today’s jobs and tomorrow’s technologies.

For the MVI

A state-of-the-art computer- controlled machine that makes precision drill bit cuts on an aluminum cylinder stands ready for students to learn how to operate it or hone their skills in an advanced manufacturing lab that has opened at Westmoreland County Community College near Youngwood.

Westmoreland County Community College celebrated the opening of the Bob Miner Advanced Manufacturing Lab on Oct. , with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in conjunction with National Manufacturing Day and the college’s MADE for Tomorrow manufacturing day celebration.

The lab, named after former Donegal Construction Corp. CEO Robert “Bob” Miner, a Monessen native, offers training in a variety of skills needed for today’s jobs and tomorrow’s technologies.

The lab is located in the college’s Business and Industry Center at WCCC’s Hempfield campus.

Over the past year, Miner has donated $1 million to projects at the college through the Robert Miner Family Foundation.

“This generous investment from the Robert Miner Family Foundation, allowed for the creation of a new lab that will expand access to short-term, industry-focused training and credentials designed to prepare individuals for in-demand manufacturing careers. The facility will help students and community members develop the technical skills employers need while creating pathways to employment and family sustaining wages,” according to a press release from WCCC.

“Having a facility like the Bob Miner Advanced Manufacturing Lab is a tremendous opportunity for our college, our regional workforce and the communities we serve,” said Westmoreland County Community College President Dr. Kristin L. Mallory.

“This lab represents what is possible when education and community partners come together with a shared commitment to changing lives. These training programs can make a lasting difference for so many people who simply need a chance to discover their potential. We are deeply grateful to the Miner family for believing in our students and our mission,” Mallory added.

Miner sold his business in 2023, then started the foundation that same year. It supports education initiatives, as well as charitable causes, including the Salvation Army, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and other local initiatives.

The lab reflects Westmoreland’s commitment to making workforce education accessible to individuals at every stage of their careers. Through short-term training and industry-recognized credentials, participants can gain practical, hands-on experience and pursue new career opportunities.

For the Robert Miner Family Foundation, the investment reflects a belief in the power of education and the importance of helping individuals overcome barriers to employment and economic stability.

“Our family believes in programs like these at Westmoreland because we know how much the right opportunity can mean to someone who is trying to build a better life,” said Robert Miner. “There are people who have the ability and the determination to succeed but may need a little extra help getting started. We want to help close that gap. When someone has the chance to learn new skills, find a good job and support their family, it can change not only their circumstances but also how they see themselves and what they believe is possible. Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams.”

Megan Sheesley, vice president of advancement and community engagement at Westmoreland, said the foundation’s investment reflects the power of partnerships in expanding access to education and career opportunities.

“Bob Miner and his family truly share our vision for what workforce education can be. They understand that sometimes all it takes is the right opportunity at the right moment to change the trajectory of someone’s life. This investment is about making sure that when someone decides they want more—for themselves, for their family and for their future—we can help them get there. We are incredibly fortunate to have partners who believe as deeply as we do in creating those opportunities,” Sheesley said.

“The opening of the Bob Miner Advanced Manufacturing Lab underscores the importance of connecting education with the evolving needs of regional employers. By providing accessible, hands-on training, Westmoreland is helping individuals build the skills needed to enter or advance in manufacturing careers while supporting the region’s economic growth. Everyone in the region benefits from this partnership,” the press release states. “Through the support of the Robert Miner Family Foundation, Westmoreland continues to make connections and to strengthen its role as a leading workforce development partner in Westmoreland County and the entire region.”