HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) has allocated $592,000 in grants to three organizations to advance the Veterans Employment Program (VEP). This initiative aims to assist veterans and their spouses in overcoming employment barriers while securing careers that provide family-sustaining wages.
“Our veterans have served our country and Commonwealth with distinction, and now it’s our turn to serve them by ensuring they have access to meaningful employment opportunities,” said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Through these strategic investments, we’re not just funding programs – we are supporting organizations that have demonstrated their commitment and capability to provide specialized services that our veterans need to thrive in today’s workforce.”
The VEP focuses on translating military-based skills into civilian career opportunities for veterans, members of Reserves units and the Pennsylvania National Guard, and spouses of service members. With over 700,000 veterans living in Pennsylvania, they represent a significant segment of the Commonwealth’s population.
Three organizations received funding to provide an array of services, including career development, job placement, and skills training:
- Business Interface Workforce Services, LLC (Montgomery County): Awarded $198,829, this program will work with 80 veterans through the Norristown Education and Employment Center, offering tailored workforce development support.
- Educational Data Systems, Inc. (EDSI) (Bucks County): Awarded $200,000, EDSI will launch the Veterans Mission Forward program in partnership with Montgomery County. The program will address employment challenges and deliver training and supportive services to create pathways to long-term careers.
- Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. (Westmoreland and Fayette Counties): Awarded $193,167, the Valor to Value program will support 20 veterans and their spouses through mentorship, career coaching, and transition services into meaningful employment.
Recognizing the critical role workforce development plays in Pennsylvania’s economy, Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has prioritized investments across the state. Since taking office, the governor has increased workforce funding by over $65 million and introduced first-time initiatives, including a $2 million investment for nursing registered apprenticeship programs to address industry shortages.
“It is programs like the VEP that provide veterans with the support they need to begin civilian careers,” said Brig. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s acting adjutant general. “Veterans make this commonwealth their home because they are afforded opportunities to hone their relatable skills and join the workforce as they transition from military service to civilian life. You don’t have to look far to see the positive impact veterans have in any job market.”
These recent grants aim to build a strong workforce by investing in programs that provide training and support for veterans and other hardworking individuals. The governor has also pledged to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities through expanded job training and placement services.
In addition, the governor’s administration has implemented various initiatives to help small businesses thrive in Pennsylvania, creating more jobs and boosting the economy.
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