W. GERARD “JERRY” OLEKSIAK

Secretary
Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry

Before joining L&I on Sept. 5, 2017, Jerry most recently served as president of the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) – the largest professional association in the commonwealth. Prior to becoming president in 2015, he served as PSEA vice president, treasurer, and as a member of the board of directors.

Jerry is especially proud of the more than three decades he spent as a classroom teacher, most of that time as a special education teacher at the Upper Merion Area School District in King of Prussia. He also served as president of the Upper Merion Area Education Association (UMAEA).

Throughout his career, Jerry has collaborated with employers, employees, and community groups in order to create partnerships that benefit all stakeholders.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Jerry graduated from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in International Relations and a teaching certificate in social studies in 1974. Several years later, Jerry earned a Master's degree in Education from Saint Joseph's, and worked to earn his special education certification through LaSalle University.

Jerry lives in Glenside, Pa. with his wife. They have been married for more than 40 years and have three children and two grandchildren.