Published on: August 31, 2025, 12:27 PM.
Updated on: August 31, 2025, 12:27 PM.
- A new dealer school for table games is launching in State College, PA
- This initiative precedes the spring 2026 debut of Happy Valley Casino
A new training institution is set to open close to Penn State University’s main campus in State College, PA.
Located just miles away from the bustling hub of 40,000 undergraduates enrolled in nearly 300 different majors, the new dealer school at the Nittany Mall will start offering training on card dealing later this year. With the highly anticipated Happy Valley Casino set to open next spring, this “mini-casino” will accommodate up to 750 slot machines and an initial offering of 30 live dealer table games, creating a demand for qualified dealers.
“This school is more than just teaching card skills; it’s about kickstarting careers in a rapidly expanding and dynamic sector,” stated Eric Pearson, general manager at Happy Valley Casino. “We’re equipping individuals not just to excel in gaming but to flourish in it.”
In June, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board approved the acquisition of a 60% stake in the casino near PSU by New York-based Saratoga Casino Holdings. SC Gaming OpCo, LLC, led by the prominent Pennsylvania entrepreneur Ira Lubert, secured the gaming license with a competitive bid of $10 million back in September 2020.
Lubert was eligible to participate in the Category 4 auction as he owns a 3% stake in Rivers Casino Pittsburgh. Only casino firms and individuals holding a significant interest in a current Pennsylvania slot machine license could compete for the Category 4 licenses.
Details About the Dealer School
Enrollment for the Happy Valley Casino dealer school will commence on October 1. No prior experience is required, but applicants must be at least 21 years old and deemed suitable by the PGCB for obtaining a dealer license.
The school will run for 12 weeks, starting from December 15 and January 5, with options for both day and evening classes.
“I kicked off my career as a table games dealer at the age of 21, and every experience since has contributed to meaningful growth and opportunities. Today, I take pride in leading the entire Table Games Department at Happy Valley Casino,” remarked Steve Rinaldi, director of table games.
“What started as an exhilarating, socially engaging job — encouraging players, creating excitement at the tables, and earning generous tips — developed into a career enriched with rewarding relationships and lasting chances. It has provided me with the stability to thrive, support my family, and build a life I am proud of. If you possess the right personality, we’ll teach you the rest. This industry can transform your life,” he added.
Students will learn to deal games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps. The Happy Valley Casino promotes, “Every job is a winning opportunity.”
Casino Development
Construction is in progress at the Nittany Mall, where Happy Valley Casino will transform an anchor space that was once a Macy’s department store. The casino is expected to create approximately 300 jobs.
Casino representatives have informed the PGCB that the $120 million investment will feature around 600 slot machines and 30 table games at launch. However, it will not provide an on-site sportsbook, although mobile sports betting remains available in Pennsylvania (alongside iGaming options for online slots and table games).
In addition, the Happy Valley Casino will offer a full-service restaurant, convenient grab-and-go dining options, and a bar.