Governor Shapiro Proposes $12.5M Boost for PA Workforce Training

The need for WEDnetPA's training resources is rapidly increasing, outpacing available funding. In response, Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed a substantial budget increase to address workforce gaps in Pennsylvania.

Investment in Workforce Training

Gardners, PA – The Rice Fruit Company in Gardners, Adams County, recently hosted an event where Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger emphasized the Shapiro Administration’s dedication to enhancing the skills of Pennsylvania's workforce. Governor Josh Shapiro's 2025-2026 budget proposal allocates $12.5 million to the WEDnetPA program, aiming to bridge critical workforce skill gaps.

Established over 25 years ago by the DCED, WEDnetPA provides financial support to employers for training employees, focusing on skill enhancement for current roles or for potential promotions. The proposed budget increase intends to make WEDnetPA more accessible, addressing the high demand that currently exceeds the existing $8 million funding.

Currently, about 500 businesses benefit from WEDnetPA annually, yet there remains an unmet demand from 250 additional applications. "With his proposed $12.5 million investment in WEDnetPA, Governor Shapiro is doubling down on our commitment to making the Commonwealth more competitive and creating economic opportunity for all Pennsylvanians," stated Secretary Rick Siger. This funding aims to help businesses like Rice Fruit Company enhance employee skills, fostering a thriving business environment across Pennsylvania.

Supporting Local Business Growth

As the largest apple-packing facility in the eastern United States, Rice Fruit Company manages over 2 million boxes of fresh Pennsylvania apples annually. WEDnetPA has allocated $30,000 for Rice Fruit to aid in employee training through Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC), focusing on areas like AutoCAD, electrical skills, and supervisory training. Upon completion, WEDnetPA will reimburse the company for the training costs.

Ben Rice, President of Rice Fruit Company, remarked, "The WEDnetPA grant has been instrumental in supporting our workforce development initiatives with funding to offer employees the tools and skills needed to thrive in today’s workplace." The partnership with HACC was crucial in developing a strategic educational plan for long-term employee success.

Expanding Economic Opportunities

Since its inception, WEDnetPA has trained over 1.3 million employees from more than 23,000 Pennsylvania businesses. Representative Torren Ecker praised the program, stating, "WEDnetPA has consistently proven to be an invaluable asset for Pennsylvania businesses, empowering our workforce through targeted training and skill development." Representative Dan Moul added that investing in workers is essential for Pennsylvania's economic strength.

Shannon Munro, Executive Program Officer of WEDnetPA, highlighted that Rice Fruit Company's training plan exemplifies the significant investments Pennsylvania businesses make to improve their workforce capabilities. "By providing access to training funds and resources, we help ensure that companies like Rice Fruit can enhance the skills of their employees, boost productivity, and remain competitive," Munro stated.

Governor Shapiro’s administration remains committed to positioning Pennsylvania as a leader in economic development. The proposed 2025-26 budget outlines over $160 million in new investments to enhance the state's economic strategy, improve competitiveness, and address housing needs. Additional budget allocations include:

• $2 million for Career Connect to foster internships at Pennsylvania companies
• $50 million to enhance the innovation ecosystem and stimulate life science job growth
• $10 million for AdvancePA tax credits to generate quality jobs across the state
• $50 million investment in Housing Stock Restoration
• $10 million increase for the Act 47 Distressed Municipalities Program

For more details on Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal, visit the official website or explore the Budget in Brief. Additional information about the WEDnetPA program is available on the DCED website. Follow the DCED on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn for the latest updates.