The governor believes that Pennsylvania needs well educated and highly-trained workforce to ensure its future economic growth.
Pennsylvania employers are increasingly concerned about the skills gap
Currently, the state has low unemployment rate and tight labor market. Businesses are experiencing a shortage of skilled applicants to fill job vacancies. The newly-created command center will bring together experts from public and private sectors and heads of state agencies to solve the skills gap and workforce shortages.
In addition, the command center will review recommendations from the Auditor General and implement those that will deliver best results. Furthermore, it will monitor the implementation and progress of various workforce and education proposals under the Statewide Workforce, Education and Accountability Program (SWEAP).
Gene Barr, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chamber and Business Industry, noted that employers are having difficulties finding skilled and qualified workers to fill open positions. The skills gap is now the biggest problem among companies. He added that they are pleased to work with the governor, lawmakers, and labor communities to address this problem.
