Description

Join the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC as we hear from Secretary Jessica Shirley of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP). Secretary Shirley will speak to members about the newly implemented Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) program, which continues PA DEP's permitting modernization efforts to increase Pennsylvania's competitiveness.

The Policy Pulse Speaker Series offers a monthly forum where officials from all levels of government, as well as leaders of business advocacy groups, discuss the current public policy landscape. Join us for engaging discussions led by distinguished speakers as they discuss their policy priorities relative to those of the regional business community, analyze pressing issues, and offer insights into the impact of public policy on the region and the Commonwealth. From local to national perspectives, each meeting promises to spark meaningful dialogue and broaden perspectives on the ever-evolving realm of public policy.

About Our Speaker

Currently serving as the Secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP), Jessica Shirley plays a pivotal role in the guidance of the department in its mission to protect and preserve Pennsylvania's environment while fostering sustainable and equitable practices. Jessica arrives to the role of Secretary with extensive experience and knowledge within the agency. Most recently, Jessica served as the Executive Deputy Secretary overseeing all programs from February 2023 to October 2023.  

Jessica was the first appointed Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator at the PA DEP from May 2022 to February 2023 and in this position, she oversaw the implementation of the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Jessica ensured the Department maximized funds for the betterment of Pennsylvania's environment, economy, residents, and communities. Jessica previously served as the Policy Director from May 2016 to April 2022 and in this position, she helped develop groundbreaking executive orders related to PFAS, climate change, energy conservation and sustainability in Commonwealth operations, and environmental justice. Jessica was involved in leading Pennsylvania’s first ever Litter Action Plan which received several awards and national recognition. In her earlier role as the Executive Policy Specialist from January 2010 to February 2011, Jessica was a trusted advisor in various policy areas and served as the Policy Office liaison for multiple advisory committees.

Jessica's educational background includes a master’s degree in Public Administration from Pennsylvania State University and a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.