And no, the NFL didn’t move the Super Bowl to September, giving the Steelers an early opportunity to hoist another Lombardi Trophy and claim the league’s championship record outright.
It’s Portage Learning.
During a ceremony held at the Rivers Casino, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recognized the accredited institution located in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, as one of its 2026 Top Workplaces.
Portage Learning ranked second among mid-sized companies and earned a special award for managers. The institution offers online, self-directed college courses, providing students with convenience and flexibility that allows them to affordably:
- Build a foundation
- Supplement current courses, or
- Accelerate toward an advanced degree
The accolade followed an anonymous 25-question survey that asked employees about a range of topics, including:
- Pay and benefits
- Organizational direction
- Leadership
- Appreciation
Energage, a workplace technology and research company that partners with the outlet to present Top Workplaces, administered it.
Kristie Mohrbacher, a student services manager, joined Portage Learning eight years ago. She says the company’s core values extend to both learners and those who work there.
“There is a genuine care for the community around us and Portage Learning makes employees feel valued, seen, and heard,” she explains. “It makes me want to do my best work. From leadership down, there is an emphasis on the people here.”
Chloe Harich agrees. The digital marketing coordinator began her professional career with Portage Learning shortly after graduating from college in 2025.
“I’ve learned a lot over the past year,” she states. “Along with my day-to-day work, I’ve been given opportunities to travel for professional development, make an impact in the community I grew up in through volunteer days, and lead staff meetings. I’m so grateful to work here.”
Over the next 10 years, the institution wants to tell one million stories.
“What we mean by that is being able to engage someone where they are in their life, not by drawing them into our courses, but by seeing where they are, meeting them there, and giving the support needed to move forward,” says Steve Michalik, president of Portage Learning.
The goal sounds ambitious.
But seven Top Workplaces awards points to a team that knows how to deliver results.
Maybe Mike McCarthy, the Steelers first-year head coach, could take a few notes.
