HIGH PRIORITY OCCUPATIONS
High Priority Occupations (HPOs) are one component of Pennsylvania’s industry-driven approach to workforce development. The purpose of the HPO lists is to align workforce training and education investments with occupations that are in demand by employers, have higher skill needs and are most likely to provide family sustaining wages. Combining statistical data with regional expert input allow for a complete picture of the actual workforce needs of the commonwealth.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Workforce System has established High Priority Occupations (HPOs) where more than $10 million in education and training dollars are targeted for investment in key occupations. These occupations are those in demand by employers, have higher skill needs, and are most likely to provide family-sustaining wages.
The Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board is seeking feedback and requests for additional High Priority Occupations for the 2017-2018 program year.
Please note: There has been a change in the occupations listed. You can review the 2016 HPO list that is attached below. We have highlighted all occupations that have been removed from the Southwest Corner Workforce Development Area list.
Please review: the 2017 Southwest Corner Workforce Area Draft list that is attached. We have highlighted the additions to the draft list.
- Petitions: Petitions to add occupations to the list for 2017-2018 must be submitted to the Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board, byclose of business June 30, 2017 using the attached, approved 2017 petition form.
- The High Prioirty Occupation (HPO) Policy – April 2017 and Sample Employer Letters and other documentation can be found at: http://www.workstats.dli.pa.gov/Products/HPOs/Pages/default.aspx
- The self-sufficiency wage for the 2017 HPO list is $33,086.
- The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry will release the final 2017 HPO lists by September 1, 2017
All Completed applications, along with required documentation, must be sent to Ami Gatts, Director, via email at agatts@washingtongreene.org and/or A hard copy of materials may also be sent via U.S. mail to: Ami Gatts, Director, Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board, 351 West Beau Street, Suite 300, Washington, PA 15301
This notification is only for the HPO Petition Process and does not serve as a notice for adding programs to the Eligible Training Provider List.
2016 HPO Lists – HIGHLIGHTED NOT ON 2017 LIST