In a move to sustainably bolster the agricultural sector of Pennsylvania, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding paid a visit to Delaware Valley University, emphasizing the importance of preparing a skilled workforce for the state's thriving plant-based agriculture field. Spurred by the Shapiro Administration's latest initiative aimed at supporting and enhancing the state's agricultural success, this visit showcased the joint efforts of education and industry leaders to create future opportunities within this vital economic sector.
According to a statement obtained by PaCast, Secretary Redding joined forces with Delaware Valley University President Dr. Benjamin E. Rusiloski to highlight the potential of horticulture and plant science as career avenues. Central to their discussion was the new Center for Plant Excellence, a cornerstone effort by the Shapiro Administration designed to immediately start building a skilled, future-ready workforce necessary for the plant-based ag sector to continue to innovate and expand.
Agriculture, an enduring legacy and a continuing promise in Pennsylvania's march toward economic diversity, stands as a testament to innovation that has long defined the region's agrarian narrative. During the event, Delaware Valley University students in horticulture and plant science, alongside key academic and industry professionals, demonstrated firsthand the dynamic interplay of education and practical application that underpins the Center's mission.
"Building the skilled, future-ready workforce that businesses across Pennsylvania's diverse plant-based ag sector need to innovate and grow is a top priority," said Redding, as reported by the PaCast. Delaware Valley University Professor of Plant Science Dr. Carla D. Garzon together with Pennsylvania Center for Plant Excellence Director Miranda Harple played crucial roles in the demonstration, aiming to visibly show how education can directly align with industry needs.
