News

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association congratulates all of its members and partners who were named to the 2025 City & State Pennsylvania Trailblazers in Economic & Workforce Development List. The list featured workforce development leaders who have achieved success in connecting workers, job seekers, and businesses, helping to make Pennsylvania’s workforce stronger and more dynamic. 

“We are proud of all of our members and partners who were recognized as trailblazers in workforce development,” said Lauren Holubec, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “Our members and partners have driven success and vibrancy in their communities through thoughtful workforce development partnerships and policies that connect workers with the jobs they need to thrive in their communities. We congratulate all those who were recognized for their work in making Pennsylvania’s workforce stronger and more dynamic, helping our communities reach their full potential.” 

According to City & State Pennsylvania, the list features “Pennsylvanians who connect students with post-graduate opportunities, make sure education aligns with the needs of today’s businesses, and support grassroots development initiatives, from neighborhood revitalizations to startup outfits.”

PWDA members and partners featured on the 2025 Trailblazers list include:

• Erica Mulberger, Executive Director, Advance Central PA
• Billie Barnes, Executive Director, Bucks County Office of Workforce & Economic Development
• Rob Cherry, CEO, Partner4Work
• H. Patrick Clancy, President & CEO, Philadelphia Works
• Nancy Dischinat, Executive Director, Lehigh Valley Workforce Development Board
• Kate McGeever, Executive Director, Delaware County Workforce Development Board
• John Tkach, Executive Director, Keystone Development Partnership

Former PWDA Executive Director Carrie Amann was also honored on this year’s list for her lasting contributions to workforce development in Pennsylvania.

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-building opportunities 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 

Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) released a Youth Demographic Study to shed light on the employment trends, labor force participation, and migration patterns of the youth population in Pennsylvania. 

“Pennsylvania’s demographic shift is clear: as our population ages, we simply can’t afford to leave young people on the sidelines,” said Lauren Holubec, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “Investing in youth workforce development isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s an economic necessity to sustain our Commonwealth’s future.”

Pennsylvania’s Youth Population is Stagnant While Retirement Age Group Explodes

Over the years, Pennsylvania’s youth population has largely remained stable or experienced slight growth. However, a concerning trend has emerged: while the youth population has stayed relatively the same, the number of individuals in the retirement age group has more than doubled since 1990, leading to an inversion of the ratio between youth and retirement-age individuals.

As a result, despite Pennsylvania’s growing population, the youth segment now represents a shrinking portion of the total population. The population imbalance poses a significant challenge for employers, as the stagnant growth of the youth demographic makes it increasingly difficult to build a strong talent pipeline. 

With fewer young people entering the workforce, employers may struggle to meet their staffing needs and drive growth.

Youth Participation Shows Signs of Recovery, But More Action Needed to Sustain Gains

Pennsylvania does not exhibit a concerning brain drain or net loss of youth, as the data shows that the commonwealth gains as much talent as it loses through migration. Pennsylvania is beginning to reverse a decades-long trend of declining Youth Labor Force Participation Rates (LFPR) and falling education levels. While LFPR has yet to fully recover to pre-2005 averages, fewer young people are sitting on the sidelines compared to recent years.

With employment opportunities available for the youth demographic, the key to further progress lies in actively connecting youth to these opportunities and engaging them in the workforce.

Solutions to Strengthen Pennsylvania’s Youth Workforce

Pennsylvania must focus on solving the imbalance between retiring workers and young talent. Workforce development organizations can help train young workers and connect them with businesses that need talent. 

Investing in youth is a workforce imperative: As Pennsylvania’s population ages and the youth share declines, strategic investment in youth workforce development is essential to sustaining long-term economic vitality. Demographic trends clearly show that the future of the labor market depends on engaging and preparing today’s young people.

Workforce development is economic development: The report underscores the urgency of embedding youth workforce strategies into Pennsylvania’s broader economic and education planning. Strengthening connections between local employers, educators, and Local Workforce Development Boards will be key to building a resilient talent pipeline.

Youth migration patterns are balanced but regionally uneven: The Commonwealth does not suffer from an overall brain drain, but migration is highly concentrated in urban areas. Nearly half of all youth live in just two MSAs – Philadelphia and Pittsburgh – while rural areas hold only 15.6% of the youth population. Regional strategies supported by Local Workforce Development Boards will be critical to addressing localized challenges and leveraging in-migration trends.

Local solutions require sustained & flexible support: Workforce development challenges and opportunities vary significantly by region. Local boards are well-positioned to respond, but doing so effectively will require flexible and sustained federal and state investment to tailor programs that meet youth where they are.

“The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Associations’s study on youth workforce shows that a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work,” said Holubec. “We need flexible, locally driven solutions to connect young people to opportunities, especially in rural and underserved areas. Pennsylvania’s workforce boards are ready to lead but need sustained support.”

Methodology: PWDA partnered with Lightcast, which relied on data from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year (2023) and the Current Population Survey’s Annual Social and Economic Supplements (ASEC) from 1990 to 2024. While both sources provide valuable insights, it is important to note that some of the data measurements may vary between them. The study focused on individuals aged 16 to 24, constituting the defined youth demographic.

Lightcast is the world’s leading authority on job skills, workforce talent, and labor market dynamics, providing expertise that empowers businesses, education providers, and governments to find the skills and talent they need and enabling workers to unlock new career opportunities. Headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, Lightcast is active in more than 30 countries and has offices in the United Kingdom, Italy, New Zealand, and India.

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-building opportunities 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 

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Annual Award is Presented to a Local Innovative Workforce Development Professional 

Hershey, PA – Today, during the 41st annual Pennsylvania Workforce Development Conference, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association named Gregg Dogan Chief Administrative Officer of the West Central PA Job Partnership, as the recipient of the prestigious Phoenix Award for his exemplary leadership and contributions to Pennsylvania’s local workforce development system. 

“Gregg’s leadership and contributions to Pennsylvania’s workforce development system are truly exemplary,” said Lauren Holebec, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “His tireless efforts to connect job seekers and employers has made our communities in Western Pennsylvania stronger and more resilient. The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association congratulates Gregg on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to his continued leadership and service.”

With a commitment to public service and a career spanning more than 40 years, Gregg Dogan stands as a pillar of excellence in Pennsylvania’s workforce development system. From the early days of the Job Training Partnership Act of 1982 (JTPA) to today’s dynamic implementation of WIOA, Gregg has been a consistent force for fiscal integrity, strategic leadership, and community-centered innovation. For the past two decades, Gregg has served as the Chief Financial Officer for the West Central Workforce Development Area, which serves Lawrence and Mercer Counties. In this role, he has provided trusted financial stewardship and executive leadership, ensuring the alignment of resources with regional goals to support both job seekers and employers. Gregg’s deep institutional knowledge, paired with his steady and thoughtful approach, has made him an invaluable resource across all levels of the workforce system.

Gregg has served with distinction on the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA), where he brings historical perspective, sound governance, and a collaborative spirit to statewide conversations about the future of workforce development. His voice is often one of wisdom and balance, helping guide strategic decisions that shape programs across the Commonwealth. Colleagues admire Gregg for his candor, dedication, and leadership. He is a mentor to many and a trusted partner to all, someone who leads not for his recognition but for the betterment of his organization and community. His approach has helped sustain the West Central workforce system through decades of legislative change, economic shifts, and evolving public needs.

Gregg’s legacy is one of integrity, service, and impact. His decades of leadership have helped build a stronger, more resilient workforce system in Western Pennsylvania and across the state. He exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose – and the field of workforce development is better because of his enduring contributions.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gregg is a devoted family man. He and his wife Lori have been happily married for 34 years and are the proud parents of three adult children – Matt, Ryan, and Delaney. A lifelong basketball enthusiast, Gregg is a former award-winning high school and college athlete and later applied his love for the game as a respected coach. The discipline, teamwork, and perseverance he honed on the court have remained at the heart of his professional life.

“In his many years of service to workforce development, Gregg Dogan has consistently exceeded expectations by demonstrating exceptional performance, teamwork, and leadership,” said Mary Salony Executive Director of the Tri-County WDB. “Gregg leads the West Central Workforce Development Area by working collaboratively with many partners. He promotes workforce development across the state and works at the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. Gregg’s willingness to share insights and lead by example has impacted many workforce professionals. I am grateful for Gregg’s assistance and straightforwardness in answering questions. Gregg tries to make a complicated system easier to understand.”

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-building opportunities 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 

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PWDA Announces Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement for Local Employers and Organizations 

Hershey, PA—Today, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association announced that nine local employers and organizations were recipients of the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement. The awardees were honored at the Association’s 41st Annual Conference on April 30, 2025, in Hershey. The Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement recognizes Pennsylvania employers who support workforce development in their communities. These employers have created jobs and partnered to hire skilled workers through Pennsylvania’s workforce development system.

“Our workforce development partners are making their communities stronger and we’re proud to highlight their leadership,” said Lauren Holubec, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “Businesses that receive the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement are working with Labor and Industry and local workforce organizations to make sure workers get the training they need for opportunities close to home. They’re opening their doors for veterans and individuals with disabilities to thrive in the workforce. We commend these efforts to make sure every Pennsylvanian has a chance to build a career and succeed right here in the Commonwealth.”

“Pennsylvania’s workforce is strongest when employers and state and local partners come together to invest in people. The businesses recognized today are opening doors, breaking down barriers, and creating real opportunities for workers across the Commonwealth,” Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said. “Their commitment to building pathways to good jobs — for veterans, for individuals with disabilities, and for all Pennsylvanians — represents the spirit of collaboration and innovation that drives this great Commonwealth forward.” 

PWDA presents its prestigious Governor’s Achievement Employers Awards with its partners, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Workforce Deputate (L & I), the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, and new this year the Pennsylvania Department of Military & Veterans Affairs. 

2025 Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement: 

Cleanlogic | Audubon, Pennsylvania

McConway & Torley | Pittsburgh, PA

Chance Aluminum Corporation | Williamsport, PA

Orbit Software | Pottstown, PA

East Penn Manufacturing | Lyons, PA 

2025 Recognizing Valor – Employers Hiring Veterans

J &J Truck Bodies & Trailers | Somerset, PA

Lockheed Martin Corporation | Davidsville, PA

M.I.C. Industries Inc. | Elton, PA

Cleanlogic | Greater Philadelphia Area

Cleanlogic, a personal care company, is committed to creating inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Inspired by the personal experiences of co-founders Mike Ghesser and Isaac Shapiro, Cleanlogic has woven accessibility and inclusion into the fabric of its company culture.

The company’s manufacturing and distribution center is designed with people in mind, offering specialized job aids and station accommodations to ensure success for every employee. In partnership with the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), Cleanlogic has hired more than 10 individuals with disabilities, including individuals who are blind, neurodiverse, or living with hearing loss.

Beyond hiring, Cleanlogic hosts work-based learning and job shadowing experiences for high school students and regularly offers disability etiquette and awareness training through OVR’s Business Services team. The company has also participated in OVR-sponsored business panels to share best practices with other employers.

For its leadership in advancing inclusive employment, Cleanlogic was honored with the 2025 PWDA Governor’s Achievement Award for Employer of Workers with Disabilities.

J & J Truck Bodies & Trailers | Somerset, PA

J & J Truck Bodies & Trailers, a division of Somerset Welding & Steel and a subsidiary of Riggs Industries has been building quality steel dump bodies since 1958. Originally serving coal haulers and farmers, J & J has grown into a respected name in the region’s manufacturing economy.

J & J is proud to be a veteran-friendly employer with a company culture supporting military families and veterans. The Somerset location currently employs 10 veterans and has successfully placed veterans into On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs, including two hires in 2023. An additional OJT opportunity for veterans is open in 2024.

Human Resources Specialist Taylor Gontis has been instrumental in building J & J’s veteran outreach program. She regularly attends job fairs, identifies veteran talent for OJT opportunities, and implements strategies for recruiting and retaining veterans.

J & J’s commitment to veterans is clear, and the company and Taylor Gontis are deserving of recognition for their ongoing efforts to support those who have served.

Lockheed Martin Corporation | Johnstown, PA Region

Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace and defense, and a proud veteran employer with deep ties to Pennsylvania’s workforce system. The company currently employs 60 veterans at its local facilities, including four new veteran hires in 2024.

Lockheed Martin has shown a strong commitment to workforce development by leading the creation of a group apprenticeship program for Machinists-Tool and Die. In partnership with PA CareerLink®, BWPO, SAWDB, ATO, and JARI, this program is set to expand advanced manufacturing training for the company and the region.

In addition to apprenticeship initiatives, Lockheed Martin hosts frequent job fairs and hiring events in partnership with PA CareerLink® Cambria and Somerset Counties, drawing strong attendance from local jobseekers.

Lockheed Martin’s leadership team, including Patrick McCann, is also deeply engaged in workforce planning through active involvement with the Southern Alleghenies Workforce Development Board.

Beyond recruitment, Lockheed works closely with local schools to promote manufacturing careers and inspire the next generation of skilled workers.

Lockheed Martin’s ongoing partnership with PA CareerLink® highlights how businesses and workforce systems can collaborate to build opportunities for veterans and skilled trades professionals.

McConway & Torley | Pittsburgh, PA

McConway & Torley (M&T), a steel foundry operating since 1869, has long been a part of Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage. In 2023, M&T partnered with the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) to provide transitional jobs for individuals returning home from incarceration.

CEO’s on-site work crews have offered participants immediate employment and hands-on training, and five individuals have already transitioned into full-time roles at M&T. All five remain employed and continue to advance through the company’s training programs.

Starting wages range from $17.50 to more than $20 per hour, with comprehensive benefits including medical coverage and paid time off. As HR Director Tyler Malone says, “If someone is reliable, the sky’s the limit, and we will train you to do whatever you want to do.”

M&T’s commitment to second chances and workforce development makes it a valued employer and partner in building a stronger Pittsburgh community.

M.I.C. Industries Inc. | Elton, PA

M.I.C. Industries Inc., founded in 1981, is the creator of the Ultimate Building Machine® (UBM®) technology, used in over 70 countries to fabricate and construct buildings for military, industrial, agricultural, and commercial applications.

M.I.C. is a proud FCJL employer with a strong veteran-inclusive culture. The Elton site currently employs 10 veterans, and the company continues to offer On-the-Job Training (OJT) opportunities, with an active search for new veteran candidates in 2025.

Plant Manager Paul Erb, a former participant in PA CareerLink®’s OJT program himself, has championed veteran hiring initiatives at M.I.C. He regularly attends job fairs, screens applicants, and works closely with PA CareerLink® to connect veterans with meaningful career paths.

Erb’s personal experience with CareerLink services gives him a unique perspective on the value veterans bring to the workforce, and he has built a model partnership between M.I.C. and local workforce programs.

M.I.C. Industries and Paul Erb deserve recognition for their outstanding support of veterans and commitment to growing Pennsylvania’s skilled workforce.

Chance Aluminum Corporation | Williamsport, PA

Chance Aluminum Corporation purchased an aluminum mill in Williamsport in 2021, rebuilding the facility, retaining workers, and creating new jobs. A key strategy to the company’s success is its partnership with PA Careerlink® Lycoming County.

The consultative services of the Business Solutions Team (BST) have resulted in tailored recruitment events and job posting assistance on CWDS to ensure Chance Aluminum connects with talented individuals.

In 2024, the company welcomed 37 new employees, with plans to bring on more than 40 in 2025 and 113 full-time positions by 2027. Chance Aluminum values employee training, so when the BST discussed On-the-Job Training (OJT) through PA Careerlink®, the company was interested. The company has used OJT to equip five new employees with the hands-on skills they need to succeed.

Further, Chance works to ensure the wages they pay employees are competitive, and they utilize the labor market analysis services from PA Careerlink® and Advance Central PA to help them achieve this.

“Chance Aluminum isn’t just a business but a lifeline for our community,” says Mayor Derek Slaughter. “Their partnership with PA Careerlink® has built a strong workforce and brought hope and stability to families who call Williamsport home. They embody what it means to care about your people.”

Orbit Software | Pottstown, PA

Orbit’s journey began in 1998 when they recognized a need for more efficient and effective transportation management. At the time, traditional methods of creating bus routes were slow and costly, often leading to job cuts in education and the elimination of vital programs like music and sports. Orbit’s leadership understood the impact this had on teachers, students, and communities, and they set out to create software that would not only streamline the process but also help preserve valuable jobs and school programs. Adding another level of workforce support for their school districts, Orbit Software produced a free e-book entitled “Keeping your bus fleet fully staffed despite driver shortages.”

As the company grew, so did its dedication to the well-being of its employees. Orbit Software collaborates with the PA CareerLink® Montgomery County and its Business Services Team (BST). They stay in contact and use the BST to help with writing job descriptions, developing candidate sourcing, staying up to date with labor market statistics, and ensuring its training programs allow its employees to be successful. Orbit’s commitment to professional growth and employee satisfaction is at the core of its operations, one employee at a time.

Having used Montgomery County’s On-The-Job Training (OJT) funds for many years, in 2024, Orbit made a significant move to adjust the pool of talented individuals for the company. They increased their starting OJT wage from the OJT minimum to $20 per hour to reflect a greater investment in their employees’ future. The increased starting wage, combined with structured raises at the successful completion of each pre-arranged milestone, meant that an employee starting at $20 per hour could see as much as a $5 per hour increase in six months.

Orbit also offers a comprehensive benefits package to support employees in every aspect of their lives. Orbit strives to create a work environment where employees can personally and professionally thrive. 

Although Orbit Software is a small company of less than 20 people, it has a proud legacy of significantly impacting the communities it serves. But equally important, they take pride in being an employer who values its people, offering career growth, fair compensation, and a work environment where employees are empowered to succeed.

East Penn Manufacturing | Lyons, PA 

As a dedicated partner of the PA CareerLink® system, East Penn actively recruits through job fairs, on-site recruitments, and collaborative events. In 2024, the company posted and filled nine positions via PA CareerLink® while engaging in initiatives that enhance workforce readiness. The company also supports career exploration for youth through its Manufacturing Co-Op Program, which offers high school seniors invaluable industry experience and a pathway to full-time careers. 

For slightly older students, East Penn has built a partnership with Reading Area Community College to prepare college students for a rewarding career in mechatronics through its Mechatronics Scholarship Program.

East Penn’s inclusive hiring practices set it apart. The company’s collaboration with the Literacy Council of Reading-Berks further demonstrates its commitment to workforce inclusivity by providing English proficiency training for employees aspiring to leadership roles and reverse ESL programs for supervisors to enhance team communication. In 2024, East Penn began offering ESL Level I classes in addition to Level II. 

In addition to its internal workforce development efforts, East Penn actively collaborates with organizations to foster women’s development. It is a Platinum sponsor of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance’s Women2Women program and sponsors employees to participate in Battery Council International’s WGBI (Women in the Global Battery Industry) program. Dozens of women are sponsored every year-36 women were sponsored in WGBI in 2024- to build relationships and enhance their skills to promote career growth.

Furthermore, through its Women’s Leadership Initiative, the company promotes gender equity by fostering leadership skills, networking, and career advancement for women in traditionally underrepresented fields like engineering and production.

East Penn’s commitment to its employees is reflected in its family-sustaining wages, comprehensive benefits, and continuous training opportunities. For the 21st time, the Best Companies Group recognized the company in 2024 as one of the “Best Places to Work in PA,” a testament to its supportive culture and dedication to employee growth. Forbes and Statista also recognized East Penn as one of Pennsylvania’s Best-In-State employers for 2024, and the company received national recognition as one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Manufacturing, also from the Best Companies Group.

From its innovative partnerships to community-driven programs, East Penn Manufacturing continues to set a benchmark for excellence in workforce development.

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 forPennsylvania’s premier annual workforce development gathering every spring, we provide development and capacity building opportunities 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 

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Report Underscores the Need for Workforce Development Investments to Address Wage Stagnation and Joblessness Among Key Demographic Groups

Harrisburg, PA: Today, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association released its Annual Labor Market Update, which includes a full-year review of Pennsylvania’s labor market data and other important economic indicators. The report found that while Pennsylvania’s economy is healthy, the labor market is rebalancing to favor employers and key demographic groups are facing workforce challenges. Workforce Development can help ensure that workers have the skills to fill available jobs and advance in their careers, breaking the cycle of wage stagnation. 

“Pennsylvania’s economy is healthy, but underlying factors make it clear that our policymakers must invest in workforce development,” said Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “Our research shows a high share of prime-age men without jobs, one in seven in Pennsylvania. Additionally, workers without a college degree have experienced long-term wage stagnation. These populations are likely to benefit from robust workforce development services. If we focus on workforce development, Pennsylvania can build on its healthy economy and ensure that all Pennsylvanians can build strong, thriving careers in our commonwealth.”

PWDA’s Annual Labor Market Update provides a comprehensive view of the commonwealth’s economy, smoothing month-to-month fluctuations. The report assesses how Pennsylvania’s economy currently stands compared to four years ago and pre-pandemic.

For policymakers, administrators, workforce system boards and providers, and other partners interested in taking action informed by data, the Annual Update can help identify the workforce challenges Pennsylvania must address to build a thriving economy for all workers and businesses. 

Key Findings in the Annual Labor Market Update

Pennsylvania’s Labor Economy of the Last Two Years Has Been Healthy 

As highlighted in prior “Workforce Trends” reports, Pennsylvania’s economy in the last couple of years experienced, by several measures, the tightest labor market on record. The number of jobs in Pennsylvania increased steadily, providing employment for most Pennsylvania workers seeking a job. 

Available Workers and Jobs Have Rebalanced

The most recent months of data reveal a labor market rebalancing. Pennsylvania no longer has substantially more job openings than unemployed workers. Quit rates, one symptom of individual worker leverage, have dipped. The data also show that, even in the tighter labor market of 2023 and 2024, Pennsylvania made limited progress on some of our most vexing long-term labor market challenges, such as wage stagnation and large-scale joblessness among prime-age men (25-54 years old).

Workforce Development Remains Vital

In recent months, the economic challenges faced by non-college workers – nearly two-thirds of U.S. workers – have received unprecedented attention. Policy shifts outside the field of workforce development, most prominently on trade and immigration, have been in the limelight in national discussions. Also, expressed has been bipartisan support at the national and state levels for expanding apprenticeships. Given the high share of prime-age men without jobs, one in seven in Pennsylvania, and the long-term wage stagnation experienced by workers without a college degree, robust workforce development services and direct job creation must be part of national and state policy going forward.

A Snapshot of Pennsylvania’s Economy and Workforce

Pennsylvania’s Economy is Healthy, with Lower Unemployment Rates in Every Workforce Development Area Than Pre-Pandemic

Since 2022, the Pennsylvania labor market has offered robust job opportunities to our workers.

In December 2024 (the latest data available), Pennsylvania had 139,600 more jobs than in January 2020, the peak employment before the pandemic. Our job growth remained steady throughout 2024 and exceeded U.S. job growth in the year’s second half. Pennsylvania job growth usually runs along at only half of U.S. job growth.

The Pennsylvania unemployment rate equaled 3.6% in December 2024. Before mid-2022, the unemployment rate in Pennsylvania never dropped below 4%, going back to January 1976 (when the current state unemployment rate data series began). In the 30 months since July 2022, Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate has been at or below 4%.

Unemployment rates remain lower in every county and every Local Workforce Development Area (LWDA) than before the pandemic, with the drop in unemployment largest in the western half of Pennsylvania.

For an extended period from the summer of 2021 to late 2024, Pennsylvania had fewer unemployed workers than job openings for the first time on record. This ratio fell to 0.6 unemployed workers for each job opening at one point.

Recent Labor Market Tightening Shows an Increasingly Difficult Market for Workers, Stagnating Wages

In November 2024, the ratio of unemployed workers to job openings climbed back to one-to-one, giving workers less choice of jobs and employers more choice of workers.

Quit rates in Pennsylvania declined in recent months to 1.7%, down from a peak of 2.8% in May 2022. This suggests that workers have declining confidence in their ability to find an equivalent or better job if they quit.

Virtually all of Pennsylvania’s rural and western Local Workforce Development Areas (LWDAs) have fewer jobs now than before the pandemic. The eight LWDAs that saw the biggest job declines (in percent) are all in western Pennsylvania. Population trends leading to declining labor forces in these areas drive declining job numbers and low unemployment.

While inflation-adjusted wages grew 5% to 10% from 2019-2023 in the bottom half of the earnings distribution, they didn’t grow much. Updated data show that average weekly wages grew even less from 2019 to 2024. A big reason is the high rate of inflation in 2021 and 2022.

Prime-Age Men Struggle to Reach Historic Employment Levels

In 2023 (the most recent data), about 361,000 prime-age Pennsylvania men did not have jobs, an improvement from approximately 390,000 in 2019. We need another 260,000 jobs to return to 1960s employment rates for prime-age men. Eight of the 22 Workforce Development Areas have a prime-age employment rate of less than 80% – meaning that more than two of every 10 prime-age men are not employed.

One factor contributing to limited progress on prime-age male employment: Pennsylvania manufacturing and construction employment levels are still 1.6% below their pre-pandemic levels. Low blue-collar job growth highlights the importance of maintaining policies that grow public and private investment in manufacturing and construction.

“Pennsylvania’s long-term challenges underscore the continuing importance of workforce development services,” said Carrie Amann. “To boost jobs in western Pennsylvania, raise male employment rates, and achieve more substantial wage growth for non-college workers, we need to expand credential attainment and on-the-job training aligned with employer demand and  invest in barrier removal and retention supports customized to the needs of particular workers. The data also suggest that there is no escaping the need for direct job creation to reattach the long-term unemployed to the job market.”

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 forPennsylvania’s premier annual workforce development gathering every spring, we provide development and capacity building opportunities 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 

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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 

Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) released its latest “Pennsylvania Workforce Trends” report, revealing that recent wage growth in Pennsylvania surpasses pre-pandemic levels and outpaces the national average. “Pennsylvania’s Workforce Trends” is part of a series on the latest workforce development and labor market information impacting Pennsylvania that distills critical information for policymakers and stakeholders to develop responsive workforce development policy.

“Pennsylvania’s wage growth is ahead of both its pre-pandemic levels and the national average,” said Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “In Pennsylvania, we’re seeing strong wage growth for many workers including lower-wage workers, indicating a period of opportunity as employers are willing to pay more to attract and retain talent. Our workforce development system now has a unique chance to help more Pennsylvanians share in this prosperity.”

Key Findings:

• Pennsylvania Wage Growth Exceeding Pre-Pandemic Levels: Pennsylvania’s inflation-adjusted wages in 2023 have not only returned to but slightly exceeded their pre-pandemic levels. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports nearly a 4% increase in average hourly earnings for non-supervisory employees from 2019 to mid-2024.

• Pennsylvania Wage Growth Outpaces U.S.: Pennsylvania’s overall wage growth from 2019 to 2023 has been slightly faster than the U.S. average. Pennsylvania’s wages have grown across all income levels but still lag the U.S.’s at lower income levels. In the 10th percentile, U.S. wages grew by 13.4%, compared to 9.2% in Pennsylvania, likely due to other states raising their minimum wages. In 2023, Pennsylvania’s median wage reached 104% of the national median wage, its highest level since 1997. 

• Wage Growth By Local Workforce Development Areas (LWDAs): From the first quarter of 2019 to the fourth quarter of 2023, 15 of Pennsylvania’s 22 LWDAs saw growth in average weekly wages. Lancaster County led with a 6.3% increase, likely due to its low unemployment rate. However, some suburban Philadelphia counties experienced wage declines during this period, including Montgomery, Delaware, and Chester Counties.

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 building opportunities 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

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Harrisburg, PA—Yesterday, the Pennsylvania General Assembly passed the 2024-25 state budget, which included funding for critical workforce development and career and technical education (CTE) programs. The newly approved budget includes funding increases for CTE and apprenticeships, which will help prepare our workforce for the future and drive economic growth. The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) and Pennsylvania Association of Career and Technical Administrators (PACTA) released the following statement.

“Lawmakers have prioritized workforce development and career and technical education in policy and funding over the past several years. There is an increased recognition that there are many pathways to good careers, and the commonwealth must support whatever path people choose to build a life and career in our commonwealth. This year’s budget makes important investments in programs that support our workforce development system and our career and technical education students and drive our economy. We look forward to discussions with lawmakers about how to continue building a robust workforce development system that serves all of our stakeholders, from students to workers to job seekers and businesses.”

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

The budget provides significant investments in CTE, including a $12.7 million increase (12%) for the CTE subsidy, boosting it to $144,138, and a $5 million increase (33%) for CTE equipment grants, ensuring state-of-the-art resources for training programs. 

Throughout the budget process, PACTA advocated for increases in the subsidy and equipment grant, reaching out to lawmakers and advocating for its members. 

Workforce Development

The budget provides a $2 million increase for apprenticeship training, raising the total to $12.5 million—a 19% boost. The funding will help expand hands-on training and skills development for Pennsylvania workers.

Earlier this year, PWDA and PACTA released a briefing on Pennsylvania’s “State of Apprenticeships” that the organizations developed through conversations with stakeholders and participants following the 2023 ApprenticeshipPA Collaborative & Expo. The briefing provided important insight into apprenticeships and should drive the implementation of apprenticeships and funding at the state level. The organizations will hold the 2024 ApprenticeshipPA Collaborative & Expo this fall. 

There is still more to be done to support important workforce development programs. For example, despite significant budget investments, the final budget did not include the governor’s proposed funding increase for Industry Partnerships.

“We look forward to continued conversations with lawmakers so we can prioritize workforce development and career and technical education investments in the coming years. We can build the strongest workforce in the nation – right here in Pennsylvania – but we need to take a comprehensive look at our systems and ensure we are putting our money where our mouths are.” 

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 building opportunities 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

The Pennsylvania Association of Career and Technical Administrators (PACTA) strives to promote excellence in career and technical education through leadership, advocacy and service. Learn more by visiting https://pacareertech.org/. 

PWDA Thanks Legislators for Commitment to Improve PA’s Workforce Development System

Harrisburg, PA — Today, legislation to #FreetheData passed the Pennsylvania Senate 48-0. The bill will #FreetheData, providing workforce boards and stakeholders with enhanced access to critical workforce information, ensuring that workforce boards and other stakeholders have timely data from the Commonwealth so they can better serve jobseekers, workers, and businesses. The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association is leading a coalition of business organizations, labor unions, and social service agencies in a campaign to pass legislation allowing better access to workforce data from the Commonwealth. 

“We’re thankful that legislation to #FreetheData has taken an important step forward by passing the Senate,” said Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “The bill will empower workforce boards and stakeholders with real-time, invaluable data, fostering more informed decision-making and a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving workforce landscape. We are proud of all our partners’ work in this effort, especially Sen. Camera Bartolotta who introduced the bill.”

Currently, local workforce boards and other stakeholders in Pennsylvania are experiencing a severe data lag that makes it difficult to evaluate and change workforce policies and programs effectively. Specifically, Unemployment Compensation and new hire data can take up to 24 months to access from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. Two-year-old data does not provide enough information to redesign programs or processes that improve customer outcomes. In the last several years, we have seen how quickly economic and workforce conditions have changed. We need access to more real-time data that reflect the realities in the field for our workforce development system. 

The proposed legislation to #FreetheData has two primary components. 

First, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry should share unemployment claims, unemployment wages, and new hire database information with Pennsylvania’s local workforce development boards and other stakeholders for performance accountability, evaluation, and research. 

Second, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry should develop an accessible and usable dashboard platform that allows streamlined, user-friendly access to the data at any point in time.

The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association is leading a coalition of workforce and community development organizations, including Allies for Children, Builders Guild of Western PA and Pittsburgh Works Together, Keystone Development Partnership, Keystone Research Center, Manufacturers’ Association of South Central PA, National Federation of Independent Business PA, PA Chamber of Business and Industry, Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children, and the United Way of Pennsylvania. 

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 building opportunities 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 

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Hershey, PA—Today, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association announced that eight local employers and organizations were recipients of the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement. The awardees will be honored at the Association’s 40th Annual Conference on May 1-3, 2024, in Hershey. The Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement recognizes Pennsylvania employers who support workforce development in our communities. These employers have created jobs and partnered to hire skilled workers through Pennsylvania’s workforce development system.

“Pennsylvania employers are leading the way for our workforce development system, helping to train workers and grow our economy,” said Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “Businesses are partnering with the Department of Labor and Industry, as well as our local workforce organizations, to ensure that our workers have the right training for opportunities in their communities. These successful partnerships have made it easier for veterans and those with disabilities to join and succeed in our workforce. We applaud their efforts, and we want them to serve as an example so all Pennsylvanians can have the opportunity to work and prosper in our Commonwealth.

“The Shapiro Administration is committed to advancing real freedom in Pennsylvania and a future where everyone who wants to work – veterans, young people, re-entrants, parents, rural and urban Pennsylvanians, those with or without a college degree – all have the opportunity to earn their way into a good job where they are treated with dignity,” Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said. “We invite every Pennsylvania employer to join us on that mission.”

PWDA presents its prestigious Governor’s Achievement Employers Awards with its partners, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Workforce Deputate (L & I), the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, and new this year the Pennsylvania Department of Military & Veterans Affairs. 

2024 Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement: 

B. Braun Medical Inc. | Bethlehem, PA

Winter’s Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC | Lancaster, PA

S.P. McCarl & Company | Altoona, PA

Niagara Cutter, LLC. | Reynoldsville, PA

ELWYN | Elwyn, PA

2024 Recognizing Valor – Employers Hiring Veterans

Mission Critical Solutions | Alum Bank, PA

Ward Manufacturing | Blossburg, PA

UPMC Health Plan | Pittsburgh, PA

Ward Manufacturing, LLC | Blossburg, PA 

Ward is a leading manufacturer of piping components used in thousands of installations worldwide. Building on nearly a century of quality manufacturing, Ward has become a fixture in the global pipe fitting industry. They believe in investing in their employees and creating a supportive work environment. Their culture is built on employees feeling valued and knowing they have a direct line to a career path within the organization. Ward has worked closely with PA CareerLink® Tioga County for many years. They provide priority service to all veterans through their interview process.

Ward Manufacturing, LLC offers two Journeyman Apprenticeships, Pennsylvania State Certified Mechanic and Machinist. Both programs are highly sought after in the Northern Tier Region. Ward is always looking to fill these trainings with highly motivated veterans to utilize the experience and values veterans bring to the workforce.

Ward’s Human Resources worked with the PA CareerLink® Tioga County Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialist to enroll a local Veteran into the Mechanic Apprenticeship program. The Veteran overcame his barriers and doubled his income for his growing family while learning a new trade.

UPMC Health Plan | Pittsburgh, PA 

“UPMC Health Plan recognizes the unique skills and values that military veterans offer and appreciate how their experiences can enrich our organization, our members, our patients and the communities we serve,” said Erik Orient, Director, Military Affairs, UPMC Health Plan.  “Our Pathways for Veterans program provides the support, coordination and assistance needed to help those transitioning from military service put their skills to civilian careers in health care.”

It is our honor to recognize UPMC Health Plan as an award winner for being one of the top employers in hiring veterans.

UPMC has received a top 10 ranking as a Military Friendly Employer while being recognized as a Military Spouse Friendly Employer. They have been able to utilize SkillBridge to obtain incredible success, having had 75 participants come through the program. Through the SkillBridge Program, UPMC has been able to help Veterans and their spouses with personalized job searches and application assistance. In addition, UPMC is one of the leading employers in holding military-specific career fairs while providing an employee resource group to help build a culture of camaraderie amongst its peers. UPMC has successfully hired Veterans, transitioning service members back to the keystone state from active-duty installations and facilitating discussions on Veterans and Service Members. 

Additionally, UPMC not only hires veterans but also assists small businesses and other companies in hiring Veterans. 

Mission Critical Solutions (MCS) | Alum Bank, PA 

MCS is recognized for hiring and retaining veterans. Their organization actively seeks out veterans and has a culture that fosters excellence in all they do. They are an ISO 9001-certified metal fabrication shop serving the defense, transportation, energy, mining, and rail industries. They currently employ 80 individuals in Bedford County in the careers of welding, fabricating, and machining, with 60 new hires coming in the last two years and still growing. They have been making significant investments in their equipment, making their company a desired employer for those in the welding and fabricating trades. MCS has also been making a remarkable impact on the local community and workforce by partnering with local schools to provide apprenticeship programs and the Southern Alleghenies OJT program. MCS’s collaboration is particularly noteworthy. MCS is a Five Star Program to Train & Retain employer.

B. Braun Medical Inc | Bethlehem, PA

We were proud to work with our partners to launch the Industrial Training and Education Consortium (iTEC) of the Lehigh Valley. As leaders in the Lehigh Valley, we understand the importance of workforce development and ensuring community members have the training and skills to step into key jobs with us and other local businesses. We knew we needed to simplify alternate career pathways and create a pipeline of skilled, diverse talent for the future workforce. We started this project to achieve this goal, and we already see the benefits of a coordinated approach. We are thankful for the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement, and we look forward to continuing to build a strong talent pipeline in the Lehigh Valley. – Morten Rasmussen, Corporate Vice President of Operations and Human Resources at B. Braun Medical, and Chair of the iTEC Management Council

Under the strategic leadership of B. Braun Medical Inc., a consortium of manufacturing-related employers, workforce development directed by the Workforce Board Lehigh Valley, economic development, education, and community partners launched the Industrial Training and Education Consortium of the Lehigh Valley (iTEC) in October 2023. 

The iTEC is a first-of-its-kind regional apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship program established to provide industrial skills training and talent development. Morten Rasmussen, Corporate Vice President, Operations Human Resources for B. Braun Medical Inc. and Workforce Board Lehigh Valley Board member, serves as Chair of the iTEC Management Council, states, “iTEC was envisioned as a way for local manufacturers and their training partners to simplify alternate career pathways and create a pipeline of skilled, diverse talent for the future workforce.”

As echoed by Gwen Ross, Director of Workforce Development Initiatives, PA Department of Community & Economic Development, “The iTEC program is fully aligned with Governor Shapiro’s focus on expanding apprenticeship opportunities to support Pennsylvania’s innovation economy….and is precisely the kind of public/private partnership we need to create more high- quality jobs with strong potential for upward mobility to drive economic growth in the Lehigh Valley and across the Commonwealth.”

Apprenticeship certifications, educational outreach, and training for company mentors are administered by the German American Chamber of Commerce, which, along with private-sector employers, sponsors registered apprenticeships. To galvanize this employer-driven non-profit initiative, the Workforce Board partnered with B. Braun Medical to accelerate and enhance the multi-employer iTEC model, thereby increasing the pipeline of registered apprentices and pre-apprentices in high-priority occupations, such as mechatronics, industrial manufacturing technicians, chemical lab technicians, and machinists, and more.

The closely aligned partnership between B. Braun Medical Inc. and Workforce Board Lehigh Valley has accelerated and enhanced iTEC’s goals by defraying business and industry costs of onboarding and on-the-job training, classroom training, and supportive services related to Registered Apprentices and Pre-Apprentices. 

Winter’s Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC | Lancaster, PA

Winter’s Heating and Air Conditioning, LLC has demonstrated excellence in partnering with the workforce development system and creating family-sustaining job opportunities for Pennsylvania workers. The Lancaster County Workforce Development Board nominated them for the award. The board found that the partnership with Mr. Melvin Winter was strong from day one. They worked together to create a Paid Work Experience (PWE) with our youth program and an On-the-Job Training (OJT) with the Re-Entry Program. Another OJT partnership is in progress with the Adult and Dislocated Worker Program. Winter’s Heating and Air Conditioning worked seamlessly with the PA CareerLink® team to process everything and forge ahead with a smile.

When one of the On-the-Job Training (OJT) participants could not complete the OJT, Mr. Winter gave him a fully equipped toolbelt to take with him on his next journey. Mr. Winter’s actions define excellence in demonstrating true support for an individual. He created the opportunity to transition and carry on. Mr. Winter also visits school districts and presents information on the trade of becoming an HVAC Technician. He is a second-chance employer and strongly supports our Veterans. 

S.P. McCarl & Co., | Altoona, PA

Over the past year, Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co. has emerged as an outstanding collaborator, consistently going above and beyond to engage with the workforce development system. The Southern Alleghenies Workforce Development Board nominated them for the award. Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. Mccarl & Co. has attended local job fairs, participated in tandem On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs, and showcased a deep commitment to employee success.

One of Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co.’s remarkable contributions is their active involvement in multiple workforce programs. Their participation in a unique trade-focused On-the-Job Training (OJT) initiative, a rarity in the region, has yielded tremendous success. By embracing this innovative approach, Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co. demonstrated a commitment to their workforce and addressed the shortage of trade programs in the area.

The impact of Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co. extends beyond conventional hiring practices. Their openness to diverse backgrounds and industries stands out. Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co. understands that success is not confined to specific experiences or qualifications. They have embraced individuals from varied backgrounds, fostering an inclusive workplace that thrives on diversity.

In addition to traditional engagement, Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co. has actively participated in video marketing initiatives. They provided recorded testimonials, speaking about their positive experiences with PA CareerLink® and sharing success stories. This collaborative effort has showcased the symbiotic partnership between Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co. and PA CareerLink® and highlighted the success stories of individuals who found meaningful employment through their programs.

Furthermore, Burke & Company, LLC dba S. P. McCarl & Co.’s commitment to the community extends beyond immediate hiring needs. Their presence at local job fairs has not only been a recruitment effort but a demonstration of a genuine commitment to the economic and workforce development of Blair County.

Niagara Cutter, LLC | Reynoldsville, PA

In the short time Niagara Cutter, LLC partnered with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), they have made a lasting impact.

Last March, the Reynoldsville, PA, cutting tools provider helped an individual with a disability access meaningful employment by creating a job for them, giving them a significant opportunity to succeed.

Last year, Niagara Cutter participated in its first On-the-Job Training (OJT) with a recently graduated high school student. The student succeeded in his OJT and is now employed full-time at Niagara Cutter. During his time with the company, he has been promoted. 

After these successes, Niagara Cutter wanted to invest more in the success of students with disabilities. To assist students in surrounding school districts in gaining hands-on experience in the field of manufacturing, Niagara Cutter partnered with OVR to offer students Paid Work Experiences (PWEs) and Community Work Instruction.

Looking to the future, Niagara Cutter has been in contact with the Hiram G. Andrews Center as a possible site for an externship. In the summer of 2024, they plan to assist eight students and include them in another Community Work Instruction. For the 2024-2025 school year, Niagara Cutter and OVR plan to offer a non-permanent OJT along with the local Vo-Tech program to allow students to gain experience in their field as well as provide them with a valuable reference that they will be able to use in their career exploration after high school graduation.

ELWYN | Elwyn, PA

Elwyn is a nonprofit human services organization based in Media, Pennsylvania. The Business Services Team at the Delco EARN Center in Chester, PA, nominated Elwyn for the award. They have partnered to place approximately 40 people in their respective career fields, and the number continues to grow. 

Established in 1852, Elwyn has a long history of providing support and services promoting inclusivity, independence, and quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By offering a continuum of care that spans education, housing, employment, and community engagement, Elwyn addresses the holistic needs of Its diverse clientele. The advocacy and support, community integration, and life skill development that Elwyn provides are why they play such a crucial role in our community. 

Elwyn is a great employer because it takes a chance on people whom other employers often overlook. Kolin Corbin, the Corporate Recruiter, is open-minded and willing to meet and speak with any individual, no matter the situation. Often, they have conversations about a person’s career and how Elwyn can help them get to where they want to be. Elwyn is looking for people passionate about work who want to improve their lives—often helping people with gaps in their employment and a lack of experience. They are always willing to meet with our clients on-site and attend our hiring events and job fairs. 

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