Val Barner announced as new CEO of Skills of Central PA

Submitted by Skills of Central PA

STATE COLLEGE — Skills of Central PA recently selected Val Barner as the organization’s new chief executive officer, following the retirement of former CEO Rebecca Aungst.

Barner joined Skills in 2017 as a regional vice president overseeing operations in Centre, Lycoming, Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Juniata counties. She was promoted to chief operating officer in 2018. Since that time, Barner has provided oversight of Skills’ daily operations to ensure that the organization’s mental health and intellectual/developmental disability programs meet the needs of people Skills supports at home, at work and in the community.

Barner also helped guide Skills through the many challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. As chief operating officer, she stayed on top of changing regulations, helped to modify operations to keep Skills’ staff and the people they support safe and healthy, and has also helped the organization cope with the ongoing staffing crisis that continues to provide challenges to local businesses.

Barner holds two degrees from Penn State University: a bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation education services and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling. She also has a long, successful history working in the human services industry, including a great deal of experience in behavioral health settings.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to lead the Skills organization,” Barner said. “I’m looking forward to working with our great team of employees to continue pursuing our mission and vision, to support people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, and to ensure that they are able to lead full, happy and healthy lives.”