HARRISBURG – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro delivered his annual budget address, outlining his administration’s priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) welcomes the governor’s focus on workforce development, and we look forward to working with the administration to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has access to the skills and training they need to thrive in today’s economy.
“Workforce development has been a bipartisan priority in Harrisburg and remains at the forefront of priorities for Pennsylvania employers, job seekers and communities,” said Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “We are encouraged by the governor’s commitment to Pennsylvania’s economic growth and stand ready to collaborate with policymakers to make Pennsylvania’s workforce development system the strongest in the nation.”
In addition to key investments like Industry Partnerships, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association encourages the administration and the legislature to make critical investments in youth workforce development. Pennsylvania’s economy cannot wait – as Pennsylvania’s workforce ages, we need commonwealth-wide investments and programs to help prepare young people for careers in Pennsylvania. Our local workforce development system stands ready to keep young people living and working throughout the Commonwealth.
Governor Shapiro highlighted B. Braun Medical Inc. in his budget address as a leading life sciences company that contributes significantly to Pennsylvania’s economy by sourcing $200 million in raw materials and equipment from over 100 Pennsylvania-based suppliers. PWDA was proud to recognize B. Braun at its 2024 Annual Conference with the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement for the company’s commitment to workforce development and investment in Pennsylvania’s workforce.
B. Braun’s success exemplifies the impact that strong workforce partnerships can have on economic growth. Their dedication to hiring skilled workers and investing in local talent underscores the importance of continued workforce development initiatives in Pennsylvania.
Additionally, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association will continue to advocate for legislation to #FreetheData, ensuring that employer and jobseeker success is prioritized and workforce boards have timely access to the readily available information they need to maximize investments and impact.
The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) serves as the voice of the Pennsylvania workforce development system and a clearinghouse for workforce development information statewide. Known for Pennsylvania’s premier annual workforce development gathering every spring, we provide development and capacity buildingopportunities to workforce development professionals, local workforce development boards (WDBs), and other stakeholders while continuing proactive advocacy efforts on behalf of Pennsylvania’s workforce development system. Learn more by visiting https://www.pawork.org