by To celebrate the one-year anniversary of Governor Josh Shapiro’s executive order focused on workforce development, Pennsylvania officials announced major milestones aimed at improving recruitment, retention, and workplace inclusion across state agencies.
The Shapiro Administration also celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of the Mentor Protégé Program, supporting small and diverse businesses.
Key Details
The Commonwealth’s HIRE Committee has implemented a series of pilot programs and long-term initiatives, including:
- Eliminating Waiting Periods for Benefits: Beginning August 1, 2025, new hires can immediately enroll dependents in health coverage with no extra cost.
- Bilingual Incentive Program: A $1.00/hour bonus launched in April for bilingual employees in specific public service roles.
- Re-Entry Hiring Pilot: Collaboration with the Department of Corrections to employ individuals previously involved in the justice system.
- Annual Commonwealth Job Fair: Over 1,000 job seekers attended the second fair in Harrisburg to explore state career opportunities.
- Language Access Services: Introduction of Pennsylvania’s first enterprise language access manager to expand translation support and resources.
- Expanded Childcare Access: The Keystone Early Learning Center is being expanded to better support state employees.
- Mental Health & Wellness Support: Enhanced resources for employee mental health, family caregiving, and work-life balance.
- Improved Building Accessibility: Ongoing assessments aim to enhance physical accessibility across Commonwealth facilities.
- Free Menstrual Products and Single-Use Restrooms: Increased availability of hygiene products and added gender-inclusive restroom options.
Reactions or Statements
“We’re making tangible progress in creating a workforce that is as diverse, dynamic, and innovative as the people we serve,”
— Neil Weaver, Secretary of Administration
“Our work is focused on creating a workplace that values every employee,”
— Reggie McNeil, Secretary of General Services
Small Business Mentor Protégé Program
The Department of General Services also announced the successful graduation of 15 small business owners from the inaugural Mentor Protégé Program (MPP) — an initiative created to foster diversity and competitiveness in state contracting.
- Focus Area: Information Technology services
- Support Provided: Mentorship from experienced contractors, procurement training, business development resources
- Objective: Help small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses compete in state procurement
Lt. Governor Austin Davis praised the program, reinforcing the administration’s goal to “cut red tape” and build ladders of opportunity for underserved business owners.
What’s Next
- Continued implementation of the HIRE Committee’s workforce reforms.
- Expansion of the Mentor Protégé Program into additional sectors.
- Ongoing assessments to enhance accessibility, inclusion, and service delivery in state operations.
FAQs
Q: What is the goal of Governor Shapiro’s executive order?
A: To modernize Pennsylvania’s state workforce, improve hiring processes, and create inclusive employment practices.
Q: Who qualifies for the bilingual employee bonus?
A: Employees in designated Unemployment Compensation and PA CareerLink roles who provide services in multiple languages.
Q: What support is offered to small businesses?
A: One-on-one mentorship, training in procurement, and access to state contracting resources through the MPP.
Q: How is accessibility being improved in state buildings?
A: A comprehensive study is underway to upgrade physical access for people with disabilities across state-managed properties.
Q: Will there be more job fairs?
A: Yes, the Commonwealth plans to continue hosting job fairs to attract and recruit a diverse workforce.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration continues to make significant strides in transforming Pennsylvania’s state workforce and increasing access for small businesses.
Through practical reforms and inclusive initiatives, the Commonwealth is positioning itself as a model public sector employer and partner in economic development.
