Pennsylvania Invests $1.3M in Ag Workforce Development

By Blake Jackson

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) announced a $1.3 million investment in Penn State University's Agricultural Workforce Development Project.

Funded through the Farms & Agribusiness Workforce Engagement Grant, the project aims to bolster Pennsylvania's agricultural workforce by:

• Increasing PA CareerLink awareness among farmers and agribusinesses.
• Providing targeted technical assistance to employers on HR practices, legal compliance, safety, and employee management.
• Training workforce system providers on the unique needs of the agricultural sector.

This investment aligns with Governor Josh Shapiro's Economic Development Strategy, recognizing the vital role of agriculture in Pennsylvania's economy.

“As we work to ensure Pennsylvania remains a national leader in agriculture, we must support the many small farms and agribusinesses facing challenges with attracting and retaining skilled workers,” said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker.

“Ag is not just a way of life in Pennsylvania, it’s also a cornerstone of our economy. The Shapiro Administration has selected Penn State to carry out this important project, which will help strengthen the industry’s workforce for years to come.”

“Investing in a strong agricultural workforce is critical to the future of Pennsylvania’s farms and our economy,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.

“As Pennsylvania continues to rise as a national leader in agriculture, the Shapiro Administration is committed to supporting our farms and agribusinesses with the technology, skilled workers, and resources they need to thrive. This partnership with Penn State is a key investment in our future, ensuring that agriculture remains a cornerstone of our economy for generations to come.”

The Shapiro Administration has demonstrated its commitment to agriculture through various initiatives, including:

• Developing a comprehensive Economic Development Strategy that prioritizes agriculture.
• Establishing the Organic Center for Excellence to support organic farmers.
• Securing significant funding for Pennsylvania's Farm Bill, supporting workforce development and infrastructure.

This initiative is fully funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

Photo Credit: gettyimages-dmytro-diedov