BIGLERVILLE, PA — 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 yesterday in Biglerville to honor three exceptional frontline agriculture workers as Pennsylvania Farmworkers of the Year. The inaugural recipients of this award are Jose Mateos of Hollabaugh Brothers, Stephen “Cowboy” Kulp of Clemens Food Group in Hatfield, and Charles “Cam” Bishop of Pennsylvania Packinghouse in Washington County.
The new award celebrates frontline farm and food-processing employees who are vital to Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry. These workers play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and secure food supply, sustaining local economies, and supporting families across the state. The three honorees are part of a workforce of over 593,000 individuals who drive the state’s agricultural success.
“Skilled, diligent team-players like Jose, Stephen, and Charles feed our families, inspire their coworkers, and are the foundation of their employers’ success,” said Secretary Redding. “The Shapiro Administration applauds the contributions agriculture workers make to our communities and 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.”
The speakers at the event included prominent figures such as Kimberly Paley, Secretary Redding, Chad Hollabaugh, State Representative Torren Ecker, Brett Moyer, and Secretary Walker. They highlighted the importance of building a skilled workforce to support the state’s agricultural sector.
Nominees for the award were selected based on their initiative, determination, and positive impact on their coworkers and employers. The awards align with the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to investing in the agricultural workforce. Governor Shapiro’s 2024-25 budget includes new investments such as a $10 million Agriculture Innovation Fund and continued support of $13 million annually for PA Farm Bill programs.
“Today, we celebrate not just the vital work of Jose, Stephen, and Charles, but the dedication of every agriculture worker who contributes to Pennsylvania’s prosperity,” said Secretary Walker. “Their commitment exemplifies the spirit of teamwork and excellence that drives Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry. The Shapiro Administration is proud to support these exceptional individuals and to invest in the future of agriculture, ensuring that every worker has the opportunity to thrive and continue feeding our communities and our economy.”
Award winners received high praise from their colleagues. Brad Hollabaugh commended Mateos for his patient guidance and managerial skills, which have been instrumental in training new employees. Mark Musselman lauded Kulp for his exceptional teamwork and dedication to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Doug Patterson highlighted Bishop’s extensive knowledge and invaluable contributions to the meat industry, noting his irreplaceable role in their family business.
This recognition emphasizes the essential role of frontline farmworkers and the collective effort to sustain and grow Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry.
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