HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration has taken a powerful step into the future with a groundbreaking agreement to train Pennsylvania’s public sector employees on the responsible and effective use of generative artificial intelligence (AI). Through a partnership with InnovateUS, a leader in free training programs for public workers, the Commonwealth is equipping its workforce with cutting-edge knowledge that promises to revolutionize how government delivers services to its residents.
This move follows a bold commitment by Governor Josh Shapiro, who, earlier this year, signed Executive Order 2023-19 at Carnegie Mellon University, pledging to integrate AI training into the public sector. The Governor’s promise is now a reality, as Commonwealth employees gain access to tools that not only enhance productivity but also ensure responsible and ethical AI use.
Standing at the forefront of this initiative, Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver emphasized its significance. “Generative AI is a powerful tool that can enhance the productivity of our workforce and the services they deliver for Pennsylvanians,” said Weaver. “This agreement gives us the capacity to provide high-quality training at-scale to equip employees with the relevant knowledge to use generative AI in their daily work.”
A New Era of Enhanced Productivity
The potential of generative AI is already evident. Employees participating in the Commonwealth’s pilot program with OpenAI reported saving an average of 105 minutes on the last day they used the technology—time that can now be spent addressing pressing issues and delivering better outcomes for Pennsylvanians. This isn’t just a technical upgrade; it’s a fundamental transformation of how government workers approach their roles, cutting unnecessary time drains and allowing for more creative and impactful problem-solving.
From crafting more efficient workflows to finding innovative solutions for complex challenges, AI is set to amplify the productivity and effectiveness of public services in ways never before imagined. But innovation needs to be matched by education—and this is where the partnership with InnovateUS steps into the spotlight.
Responsible AI Use in the Public Sector
The integration of AI into public workspaces comes with weighty responsibilities. Misuse or misunderstanding of these tools could lead to inefficiencies, skewed decision-making, or even ethical dilemmas. That’s why the focus on responsible AI use is paramount, and Pennsylvania is not taking any shortcuts.
The training—designed by InnovateUS specifically for public sector employees—tackles key aspects of generative AI application in government roles. The self-paced courses explore best practices such as prompt creation for AI tools, risk mitigation, and responsible decision-making. Through practical examples and exercises, employees learn not only where AI can be helpful but also when and how to implement it effectively.
“As generative AI systems become more prevalent and are integrated into commonly used technology tools, these trainings will serve as a foundation for employees as the Commonwealth continues to provide resources to navigate this new technology responsibly,” said Weaver.
To reinforce these efforts, the Office of Administration has also updated its mandatory security awareness and acceptable use training to incorporate AI literacy, ensuring staff members have the tools necessary to adapt to the evolving landscape.
A Model for the Nation
By teaming up with InnovateUS, Pennsylvania cements its role as a national leader in preparing public workers to face the challenges and opportunities of advanced technologies. This collaboration combines expertise from state coalitions across Pennsylvania, California, Colorado, Maine, and New Jersey, bolstered by InnovateUS’s partnership with Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change. Together, they are creating a workforce that is not only skilled but also thoughtful in implementing AI for the public good.
This program isn’t just about getting ahead—it’s about setting the standard. What Pennsylvania is doing serves as a blueprint for other states and governments striving to harness the potential of AI while upholding the highest standards of responsibility, fairness, and ethical conduct.
Why This Matters to You
For Pennsylvanians, this initiative has far-reaching implications. What does it mean when public employees gain access to high-quality AI training? It means faster, more reliable government services. It means reduced costs by eliminating inefficiencies. It means a government better equipped to tackle crises, solve problems, and deliver for its residents.
Generative AI tools, with their ability to analyze data, streamline processes, and even assist in drafting policy recommendations, are no longer a luxurious extra—they’re a necessity. And by investing in this training now, Pennsylvania ensures that it keeps its edge as a forward-thinking, effective state, unafraid to lead the charge into new technological frontiers.
This isn’t just an investment in government employees—it’s an investment in the Commonwealth’s future. The people of Pennsylvania deserve a government that keeps pace with the private sector, adapts to emerging trends, and remains committed to serving the public responsibly and efficiently.
The Shapiro Administration isn’t waiting for the future to arrive—it’s shaping it. With generative AI training rolling out now, Pennsylvania is proving once again that leadership isn’t just about recognizing opportunities—it’s about seizing them.
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