Last Tuesday, Director of Government Affairs Alex Halper participated in a roundtable discussion with German Consul General David Gill, a New York-based diplomat who covers a territory that includes Pennsylvania.  Following a speech before the PA House of Representatives in the House chamber, Consul General Gill and members of his staff met with representatives from several employer advocacy organizations and a number of lawmakers including States Reps. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) and Caucus Secretary Martina White (R-Phila.)

Consul General Gill provided an overview of Germany’s economy and the status of the war in the Ukraine. The group also discussed the strong historical, cultural and economic ties between Germany and Pennsylvania, from early German settlers who became known as the “Pennsylvania Dutch” to Germany’s current commercial presence including PA Chamber members Bayer (Pittsburgh) and B. Braun (Bethlehem).

Participants compared and learned about respective approaches, and opportunities for greater collaboration, in key policy areas including energy and workforce development.  Consul General Gill described Germany’s apprenticeship-based education and job training systems and the active role chambers of commerce play connecting the education and employer communities.