### Celebrating Workforce Development in Pennsylvania

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO – One of the aluminum mills at Chance Aluminum Corp., the former home of JW Aluminum on Trenton Avenue in Williamsport.

### Recognition of Local Excellence

Recently, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association proudly announced that nine local employers and organizations have been honored with the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement. Among these commendable entities is Chance Aluminum Corp., based in Williamsport. This award highlights the essential contributions these employers make towards workforce development in their respective communities.

### Award Ceremony Highlights

According to a news release, the distinguished awardees were celebrated at the Association’s 41st Annual Conference, held in late April in Hershey. The Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement is designed to recognize Pennsylvania employers who actively engage in and support workforce development initiatives aimed at enhancing their local communities. These organizations have notably created job opportunities and partnered with various entities to recruit skilled workers through Pennsylvania’s robust workforce development system.

### Commitment to Community

“Our workforce development partners play a crucial role in strengthening communities, and we take pride in spotlighting their leadership,” remarked Lauren Holubec, the executive director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association. “Those businesses receiving the Governor’s Employer Award for Achievement demonstrate exceptional collaboration with Labor and Industry alongside local workforce organizations. This collaboration ensures that workers have access to vital training opportunities right in their local areas. They have opened doors for veterans and individuals with disabilities, enabling success for diverse individuals in the workforce. We commend these efforts that guarantee every Pennsylvanian has the opportunity to build a thriving career right here in the Commonwealth.”

### A Unified Effort

“Pennsylvania’s workforce remains strongest when employers align with state and local partners to invest in people,” stated Nancy A. Walker, Secretary of the state Department of Labor and Industry. “The businesses recognized today exemplify a commitment to opening doors, dismantling barriers, and forging authentic opportunities for workers throughout the Commonwealth. Their dedication to developing pathways to good jobs—especially for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and all Pennsylvanians—reflects the spirit of collaboration and innovation that drives our great Commonwealth forward.”

### The Role of Chance Aluminum

In addition to Chance Aluminum in Williamsport, several other businesses from locations such as Audobon, Pittsburgh, Pottstown, and Lyons have also received accolades for their contributions. Chance Aluminum Corporation acquired an aluminum mill in Williamsport in 2021, breathlessly rehabilitating the facility, preserving existing jobs, and generating new employment opportunities. A pivotal strategy underpinning the company’s success has been its partnership with PA Careerlink Lycoming County.

### Innovative Recruitment Strategies

The consultative services provided by the Business Solutions Team (BST) have yielded tailored recruitment events and job posting assistance via the Commonwealth Workforce Development System (CWDS). This proactive approach ensures Chance Aluminum effectively connects with highly qualified individuals, as outlined in the news release. In 2024 alone, the company successfully onboarded 37 new employees, with aspirations to recruit over 40 more in 2025 and an additional 113 full-time positions by 2027.

### Dedication to Training and Compensation

Furthermore, Chance Aluminum recognizes the importance of competitive compensation for their employees. To maintain competitive wages, they rely on labor market analysis services offered by PA Careerlink and Advance Central PA. The commitment to employee training is evident, especially after discussions about On-the-Job Training (OJT) through PA Careerlink sparked interest, leading to the equipping of five new employees with the practical skills essential for success in their roles.

### A Community Cornerstone

“Chance Aluminum is not merely a business; it serves as a lifeline for our community,” stated Mayor Derek Slaughter, as noted in the release. “Their partnership with PA Careerlink® has forged a robust workforce and infused hope and stability into the families residing in Williamsport. They epitomize the essence of caring for your community.”

### The Role of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association

The Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) plays a pivotal role as the voice for the Pennsylvania workforce development system, acting as a central repository for workforce development information statewide. Renowned for Pennsylvania’s premier annual workforce development gathering every spring, the PWDA offers development and capacity-building opportunities for workforce development professionals, local workforce development boards (WDBs), and other stakeholders. Additionally, they continuously advocate for Pennsylvania’s workforce development system. For more details, visit [PWDA’s official website](https://www.pawork.org).

### How AI legalese decoder Can Assist

In light of the achievements and partnerships outlined above, entities like Chance Aluminum can benefit from tools such as AI legalese decoder. This innovative platform simplifies complex legal language, making it accessible for organizations navigating workforce development contracts or regulatory compliance. By facilitating a clearer understanding of legal documents, AI legalese decoder helps businesses and organizations ensure that their partnerships with workforce development entities are robust and legally sound. This support can streamline operations and enhance collaboration efforts, furthering their ability to create opportunities within their communities.