January 16, 2020 — Manufacturing activity in the region increased this month, according to results from the January Manufacturing Business Outlook Survey. The diffusion index for current general activity increased nearly 15 points this month, from a revised reading of 2.4 in December to 17.0. The survey’s future activity indexes remained at relatively high readings, suggesting continued optimism about growth for the next six months.

2026-2027 High Priority Occupations List
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Workforce System has established High Priority Occupations (HPOs) for 2025-2026. 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.

