HARRISBURG, PA — On a bright Tuesday, the historic Capitol complex buzzed with renewed vitality as Governor Josh Shapiro, flanked by Department of General Services (DGS) Secretary Reggie McNeil and Office of Administration (OA) Secretary Neil Weaver, launched a ground-breaking initiative. This pilot program, the first of its kind in the Commonwealth, offers remote workers added flexibility to reserve office space at the marble-clad Rachel Carson Building.
This innovative ‘hoteling’ pilot leverages the convenience of reserving desks, privacy rooms, and collaborative spaces in a sprawling 3,700-square-foot space on the first floor of the building. The program is a testament to the understanding of the evolving nature of modern work arrangements, a trend fast becoming a norm in the private sector. It is geared towards providing employees a shared space to collaborate and fuel the Commonwealth’s drive to recruit the best talents.
McNeil, with an air of satisfaction about him, expressed his delight at the collaboration with OA and how it resonated with the Shapiro Administration’s goal to support state workers and serve Pennsylvanians better. “This pilot shines a light on our progressive approach towards modernizing state government workplaces. It fosters flexibility, efficiency and looks out for employees’ well-being,” he said. He exuded hope that the model will pave the way for more such spaces in high-traffic areas across the state.
The Rachel Carson Building, housing the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), was deemed an ideal location for the program due to factors such as the space available, its proximity to the train and bus station and other city center amenities.
OA Secretary Neil Weaver shared his perspective, “We’re acutely aware that our employees need access to the best tools and resources to excel, regardless of where they’re working. With this new shared space, it’s easier for our remote employees to plug into an office setting for meetings and collaboration.” He voiced anticipation for the thrilling journey ahead with this pilot to meet the evolving needs of their workforce.
With a notable 25 percent of Commonwealth employees working remotely, either full-time or on a hybrid schedule, this program offers a balanced approach. It enables them to exploit the advantages of telework without compromising on the collaboration, mentorship, and engagement that come from an on-site workplace.
As of January, all full-time teleworkers must report on-site a minimum of one day per month. Senior managers, Governor’s Office staff, and cabinet members have been required to report to office in-person at least three days per week since March 2023.
This revolutionary hoteling pilot is accessible to approximately 1,500 employees from CODE PA (OA), DEP, DCNR, and the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The shared amenities, from a fully equipped kitchenette to lockers, mean the space can comfortably accommodate up to 40 people at a time.
While some agencies have introduced dedicated hoteling spaces within their premises, this site is a game-changer as the first to welcome remote employees from any Commonwealth agency.
Jessica Shirley, DEP Interim Acting Secretary, expressed her excitement about being a leading agency in space consolidation. “Lowering our office footprint translates to reduced energy consumption and less environmental impact. I strongly urge all Commonwealth employees to experience our flexible office space and be part of this exciting transformation.”
With this step, the Commonwealth not only recognizes the shifting landscape of modern work practices but also demonstrates a commitment to fostering engaged, productive, and satisfied employees. The implications of such a transformative can ripple throughout the Commonwealth, potentially fostering improved employee engagement, enhanced productivity, reduced operational costs, and a more sustainable footprint.
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