HARRISBURG, PA — The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s HIRE Committee, established under Governor Josh Shapiro’s executive order in May 2024, has reported significant progress in its mission to create a competitive, responsive, and inclusive state workforce. The Committee, chaired by Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver and supported by the Department of General Services (DGS) and other state agencies, has outlined key initiatives and achievements aimed at modernizing the state government workforce to better serve Pennsylvanians.
The HIRE Committee, an acronym for “Hire, Improve, Recruit, and Empower,” was created to strengthen the recruitment, development, and retention of state employees. The initiative also emphasizes creating welcoming workplaces and implementing policies that reflect the diverse needs of Pennsylvania residents. Over the past year, several impactful measures have been introduced to address these goals.
One standout program scheduled to launch in 2025 is a financial incentive for bilingual employees. The Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) will pilot a $1.00 per hour bonus for bilingual staff working in Unemployment Compensation and PA CareerLink® roles. New hires will also qualify for this incentive. This effort aims to expand access to state services for Pennsylvania’s diverse and multilingual population.
The HIRE Committee is also addressing childcare options for state employees. DGS is overseeing the expansion of the Keystone Early Learning Center, a childcare facility available to Commonwealth employees. Upon completion in the fall of 2025, the center will double its capacity to serve working families, reflecting the administration’s commitment to enabling employees to balance work and family responsibilities.
Another pivotal initiative involves creating employment opportunities for re-entrants—individuals returning to the workforce after incarceration. Through collaboration between the Office of Administration (OA) and the Department of Corrections (DOC), the Commonwealth has identified 44 job roles aligned with DOC training programs. Informational materials are being distributed within correctional institutions, and plans are underway to pilot a re-entrant hiring program later this year.
Accessibility improvements are also central to the Committee’s efforts. DGS is conducting an accessibility study across the Capitol Complex to better accommodate individuals with disabilities. Enhancing facilities with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant updates, installing single-use restrooms, and providing free menstrual products in restrooms are part of a broader strategy to foster an inclusive and supportive work environment for employees and visitors.
Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver commended the Committee’s progress, stating, “Pennsylvanians expect state government to deliver results for them, to be effective, responsive, and innovative. We need employees who are driven to serve and bring new ideas and perspectives to the work we do.” DGS Secretary Reggie McNeil echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of flexible and responsive infrastructure in meeting the evolving needs of the workforce and public.
Looking ahead, the HIRE Committee has set its sights on further advancements. A second statewide job fair will be held in March 2025 to attract talent for key state roles. Accessibility study recommendations are expected to result in design and construction projects beginning in May 2025 to improve inclusivity. Additional childcare expansion efforts are also being explored, along with mentoring and networking initiatives for veterans transitioning from military service to state roles.
With more than 13,000 Commonwealth employees having served or currently serving in the military, the Committee aims to help transitioning veterans by providing targeted resources and support. Furthermore, collaborative efforts with the State Employees’ Retirement System are underway to simplify benefits information and enhance employee understanding of available retirement options.
The HIRE Committee represents a groundbreaking effort to modernize Pennsylvania’s state government workforce by prioritizing innovation, inclusivity, and employee well-being. These measures not only strengthen the services delivered to residents but also pave the way for a more adaptable and responsive state government. Continued investment in initiatives like those pursued by the HIRE Committee ensures Pennsylvania remains prepared to meet the challenges of the future while creating opportunities for its workforce today.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.