In his first executive order, which he signed Tuesday, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro eliminated the college degree requirement for 65,000 government jobs.
The executive order loosens educational requirements for 92 percent of government jobs. Shapiro’s office has directed state hiring managers to prioritize work experience over formal educational background.
“We’re sending a clear message to our workers, whether you went to college or gained experience through work, on-the-job training or an apprenticeship, we value what you bring to the table, and we want you here,” Shapiro said during his inaugural address.
The new governor’s move to eliminate the education requirement will likely open up employment opportunities for many of the state’s citizens. Roughly 66% of Pennsylvanians do not hold a college degree, according to 2021 Census Data.
Republican Maryland Governor Larry Hogan of Maryland also eliminated college degree requirements for most state government jobs in March 2022, citing a tight labor market and the necessity of opening up opportunities for those without a traditional educational background.
.@bariweiss and @billmaher unload on colleges regarding how much of a scam they’ve become, lauding governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania for removing college degree requirements from most state jobs.
Via @RealTimers pic.twitter.com/bAndtvoIqf
— Clint Olsen (@clintolsen) January 29, 2023
“Through these efforts we are launching today, we are ensuring that qualified, non-degree candidates are regularly being considered for these career-changing opportunities,” Hogan said, “This is exactly the kind of bold, bipartisan solution we need to continue leading the nation by giving even more Marylanders the opportunities they need to be successful.”