Mission
Authorized by Article 23, Section 813 of the New York State Labor Law, the New York State Apprenticeship and Training Council is a tripartite body composed of employer, employee, and public representatives dedicated to advancing workforce excellence through rigorous standards, accountability, and continuous improvement. The Council’s mission is to advise the Commissioner of Labor on training matters, recommend standards for agreements, and coordinate with agencies to address skilled workers' needs.
By serving as a unique partnership among government, business, and labor, the Council aims to secure the state's economic well-being, countering the challenges of an aging workforce and labor shortages by ensuring a reliable supply of competent workers. Through structured, state-of-the-art on-the-job training and related instruction, the Council facilitates long-term employment relationships and adapts to technological transformations, thereby maintaining a vibrant and skilled labor force for New York.
View meeting history, including agendas, minutes, videos, etc.
Upcoming Events
Next Meeting
August 18, 2026
Future Meeting Dates
November 17, 2026
Member Information
| Member Name | Title, Organization | Qualification | County of Residence | 2024 Expenses | 2025 Expenses | 2026 Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Esta R. Bigler | Director, Labor and Employment Law Programs, Cornell University, ILR School | Representative of the General Public | Kings | $920.76 | $1,414.96 | $1,000.00 |
| Alejandro Mendoza | Director, Human Resources, Optimax Systems, Inc. | Representative from an Employer Organization | Monroe | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Ernest A. Hartman | NYS Representative, IBEW | Representative from an Employee Organization | Chemung | $1,044.70 | $757.20 | $1,000.00 |
| Joseph Morelle Jr. | Executive Director, UNiCON Rochester | Representative from an Employer Organization | Monroe | N/A | $101.50 | $500.00 |
| Randy Wolken | President, Manufacturers Association of Central NY | Representative from an Employer Organization | Onondaga | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Davon Lomax | Political Director, District Council 9 | Representative from an Employee Organization | Queens | N/A | N/A | $0.00 |
| Vacant |
The Council consists of 3 employee representatives, 3 employer representatives, 1 public sector and a chairperson, each appointed by the Governor for a 3-year term. Labor Law §813.
Primary Contact
- Chris Pinheiro Director of Apprenticeship and Infrastructure Email: [email protected] Contact: (518) 457-6820