Voice of the Workforce Development

About PWDA

The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association is the statewide voice for Pennsylvania’s workforce development system.

About PWDA

We connect local workforce development boards, employers, educators, policymakers, community organizations, and other partners working to expand opportunity, strengthen talent pipelines, and support Pennsylvania’s economy.

 

PWDA represents and supports all 22 local workforce development boards across the Commonwealth while creating stronger connections across the broader workforce ecosystem.

Who We Are

Our Mission

PWDA strengthens Pennsylvania’s workforce development system by advancing collaboration, advocating for effective policy, sharing best practices, and building the partnerships needed to help people, businesses, and communities succeed.

We bring together workforce, education, economic development, human services, employers, and community partners to solve shared challenges and build stronger regional and statewide connections.
We elevate the experiences of local workforce leaders and communities in state and federal policy conversations, helping shape decisions that affect workforce funding, performance, data, training, and economic opportunity.
We create space for workforce professionals, employers, policymakers, educators, and partners to learn from one another, build relationships, and move ideas into action.
We help members and partners respond to changing workforce needs through new partnerships, practical tools, professional learning, and statewide initiatives.

At The Federal level, PWDA...

  • PWDA works with federal policymakers and national partners to strengthen investment in local workforce systems and ensure Pennsylvania’s experience informs national conversations.
  • We advocate for policies that support effective workforce development, elevate the work of Pennsylvania’s local workforce development boards, and protect the resources communities need to serve job seekers and employers.

At The State level, PWDA...

  • PWDA works closely with state agencies, elected leaders, and partners across Pennsylvania to improve coordination and strengthen the workforce system.
  • We advocate for practical policies, meaningful performance measures, stronger data access, and partnerships that connect workforce development with education, economic development, youth services, human services, and vocational rehabilitation.

A Statewide Network

Our statewide network ensures that workforce strategy is grounded in local realities while helping regions learn from one another and move toward shared goals.

  • Statewide reach across Pennsylvania’s workforce regions
  • Direct connection to employers, job seekers, and local economies
  • Strong relationships with state agencies and policy leaders
  • A trusted network for collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation

Our Members

PWDA members reflect the full workforce ecosystem in Pennsylvania.

 

They include local workforce development boards, education and training providers, community organizations, employers, economic development partners, and other leaders committed to helping Pennsylvanians access meaningful work and helping businesses find the talent they need.

As workforce challenges evolve, PWDA is positioned to lead-bringing together the partners, insights, and strategy needed to ensure Pennsylvania’s workforce system is aligned, responsive, and built for the future.

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