Both Liz and Matt were born and raised in Oil City, and enjoy living here for many reasons, including their careers and the community.
Liz, a Service Administrator at 4 Your Car Connection (4YCC) in Cranberry, attended DuBois Business College after high school for the Medical Assistant Program. She worked at UPMC Northwest for five years before moving on to 4YCC–a job that she very much appreciates.
“I take pride in knowing that although 4YCC is a ‘sales-driven’ business, my employer is exceptionally giving, offering the public so many giveaways and being involved in community events,” she said. “My employer has created a positive work environment with a leadership and management style that encourages teamwork and open and honest communication. As an employee here, I know that I am valued and that my ideas and opinions matter.”
Matt went to college at Slippery Rock University and, after he earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching, he came back to Oil City and completed his master’s degree online through Edinboro University.
He formerly taught at both Seventh Street Elementary and Hasson Elementary, and he is now employed with FedEx – Express, where he also loves what he does.
“Traveling through Venango County and surrounding areas has given me the opportunity to see the beauty of our area and learn about places and businesses I have never heard of. I have found so many new spots for recreation and small businesses to support,” Matt said.
When not at work, Liz and Matt find plenty of ways to keep busy. The couple enjoys taking short trips to nearby destinations and visiting local businesses throughout the region, from wineries and breweries, to the YMCA and library. In addition, Liz crochets and knits and attends local shows to meet other crafters, and Matt is a fan of working out at local gyms and reading.
“Success is what you make it. Our life here is very fulfilling–we enjoy our work, home, and community,” they said. “We’ve both had the opportunity to become a better person because of the area we live in. There are plenty of resources to tap into and organizations to be involved in.”
The two appreciate the sense of community and cost of living in our region, in which they have found affordable housing in a friendly neighborhood, without having to sacrifice quality or location.
Both are excited to remain in the area and future goals include paying off their house, making home improvements, traveling, and starting a family.
“Although this area is deemed ‘small,’ we have many long lasting friendships and we continue to meet new people all the time,” they said. “Life here is what we’ve made it–enjoyable and fulfilling. We have time for family, friends, and hobbies, which translates to a higher quality of life.”