Shapiro administration applauds workers critical to Pennsylvania's economy, naming first PA farmworkers of the year

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Secretary of Labor & Industry Nancy A. Walker joined PA State Council of Farm Organizations President Kimberly Paley at Hollabaugh Brothers in Biglerville to recognize three frontline agriculture workers as Pennsylvania Farmworkers of the Year.

Jose Mateos of Hollabaugh Brothers, Stephen “Cowboy” Kulp of Clemens Food Group in Hatfield, and Charles “Cam” Bishop of Pennsylvania Packinghouse in Washington County were honored as the first recipients of the new award.

The new awards highlight outstanding frontline farm and food-processing employees who work tirelessly to produce a safe, secure food supply, feeding families and local economies across Pennsylvania. The three honorees are among the 593,000-plus workers whose jobs sustain Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry.

“Skilled, diligent team players like Jose, Stephen, and Charles feed our families, inspire their co-workers, and are the foundation of their employers’ success,” Secretary Redding said.

“The Shapiro Administration applauds the contributions agriculture workers make to our communities, our economy, and to every one of our daily lives. Governor Josh Shapiro has made the agriculture industry a top priority since day one, recognizing agriculture as central to Pennsylvania’s future economic vitality.”

Workers eligible for the award included frontline field and livestock workers, seasonal workers, and meat-packaging, and food-processing workers. Nominees were selected for their initiative, determination, and positive impact on their co-workers and their employers’ daily operations.