Real-World Learning for Real-World Impact
April 16, 2026
Brownstown, PA – In just one week, students at Lancaster County Career and Technology Center’s Brownstown Campus will unveil a groundbreaking, student-built Cyber-Physical City during a Cyber City Open House.
Event: Cyber City Open House
Date: April 23, 2026
Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Brownstown Campus, 231 Snyder Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522
This is an ambitious, interdisciplinary project that brings together over a dozen career and technical education programs into a single, immersive experience.
Housed within the Computer Network and Security program, the city serves as a living, interactive platform where physical infrastructure, digital systems, and creative storytelling converge. The project highlights how modern industries increasingly require collaboration across disciplines, mirroring real-world environments in cybersecurity, engineering, media, and construction.
More than a dozen programs contributed to the design, construction, and operation of the city:
- Computer Networking and Security – Designed and integrated the underlying digital infrastructure, cybersecurity systems, and interactive components
- Cabinetmaking and Wood Technology, with Introduction to Construction Careers – Constructed the modular table system and physical structures
- Commercial Art – Created visual elements, building designs, and artistic finishes throughout the city
- Digital Design and Print Media – Developed signage, branding, and printed materials
- Interactive Media and Web Design – Built websites and digital interfaces for city systems and businesses
- Introduction to Visual Communications – Designed digital billboard advertisements
- Photography and Multimedia Communications – Documented the entire build process and produced media content
- Electrical Construction Technology – Wired power systems and provided electrical expertise
- Plumbing – Engineered and built functional systems, including a working hydroelectric dam.
- Introduction to Manufacturing Careers – Assisted in fabrication and assembly of components
- Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology – Implemented automation systems, including PLC-controlled infrastructure
- Painting and Interior Finishes – Completed finishing work across the city environment
- Introduction to Culinary Arts – Will provide catering and hospitality for the Open House event
Visitors to the Cyber City Open House will be able to:
- Explore the fully operational city environment
- Interact with digital systems and student-built interfaces
- See live demonstrations of automation, power systems, and networked technologies
- Engage with students from each contributing program
This project goes beyond a traditional classroom assignment. Students worked collaboratively to solve real engineering, design, and cybersecurity challenges, gaining hands-on experience that reflects the complexity of modern careers.
The endeavor would not have been possible without the generous support of the Lancaster County Career and Technology Foundation. Thank you.