By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania is bolstering its agricultural workforce with a $1.3 million investment in Penn State’s Agricultural Workforce Development Project, spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Industry.
This initiative, in collaboration with Penn State Extension and the Center for Agricultural and Shale Law, aims to create a expand workforce system for the state’s vital agriculture sector.
"Investing in a strong agricultural workforce is critical to the future of Pennsylvania’s farms and our economy," said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “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.”
Suzanna Windon, the project's principal investigator, emphasized that it will "equip Pennsylvania’s agricultural workforce with essential HR knowledge, legal and safety guidance, and workforce management strategies." The project will focus on small and mid-sized farms, addressing labor shortages and hiring challenges to prevent closures and layoffs.
Funded by the Farms and Agribusiness Workforce Engagement Grant, the two-year project has three core objectives: increasing awareness of PA CareerLink, providing technical assistance to employers, and training workforce system providers on the unique needs of the agricultural sector.
A cohort of 100 farms will receive training and consulting on hiring and retention, along with legal, safety, and bookkeeping support. Initial surveys will identify training gaps, leading to over 85 hours of HR training statewide.
The project will also offer technical consulting on worker safety, employment law, and compensation. The Center for Agricultural and Shale Law will develop the "Pennsylvania Farm & Food Employers’ Handbook," a free resource available online.
Penn State Extension will expand its training to 1,500 agribusinesses, promoting PA CareerLink resources. At least 1,000 farms will be registered in the Commonwealth Workforce Development System to support long-term success.
Workforce system professionals will also receive training on agriculture's unique needs, addressing hiring and retention challenges through workshops and events.
This investment aligns with Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy, highlighting agriculture’s importance. "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 Labor and Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy