November 21, 2024
The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) today announced the allocation of $1,077,190 in workforce development grants to boost skills training and employment opportunities in the Hudson Valley. These grants are part of a larger $7.4 million statewide initiative directly supporting businesses, educational institutions, and non-profits in delivering high-quality training programs which focus on enhancing job readiness, closing skills gaps, and promoting career advancement. The awards also focus on programming that will help New Yorkers in disadvantaged communities, particularly the unemployed, underemployed, veterans, low-income residents and others facing employment barriers.
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “These grants represent our commitment to strengthening the Hudson Valley’s workforce by providing opportunities for skill development and job advancement. By investing in training and education, we are not only supporting individual career growth but also addressing critical workforce needs across the state. This funding will have a profound impact on both our communities and our economy, ensuring that New York remains competitive and prosperous."
The grants will support businesses in upskilling workers, individuals seeking better employment opportunities, and communities striving for economic growth. Workforce training costs vary based on factors such as program duration, training complexity, and supplemental funding.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “As someone who did not take the traditional path to a career, I appreciate the State’s focus on the development of our workforce through apprenticeship programs. These programs support career exploration and growth as well as the needs of our local businesses. We’re grateful for Governor Hochul and Commissioner Reardon’s support, especially for their investment in DayOne Early Learning and our local construction trades.”
New York State Senator Rob Rolison said, "Congratulations to our local recipients of these well-deserved state funding awards during National Apprenticeship Week. Skills-based education and on-the-job training make a real impact on workforce development, two of the many reasons why the Hudson Valley remains such an attractive destination for prospective employers across a diverse range of fields. From early childhood instruction to carpentry to advanced manufacturing, apprenticeships can launch careers and provide opportunity to countless New Yorkers committed to the dignity of work."
Below is a link to sound bites and b-roll of the event:
https://vimeo.com/1032002195?share=copy
00:00 - 00:14 Commissioner Roberta Reardon
00:14 - 00:43 Dr. Julie Riess, Executive Director and Cofounder, Day One Early Learning Center
00:44 - 01:01 Scott Smith, Business Manager, Carpenters Local 279
01:01 - 01:13 Jeff Beck, Director, BuildNBeyond Hudson Valley Enrichment Program & Local 17 Training
01:13 - 07:50. b-roll
Below is a link to images from the event:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nysdol/
Summary of Grant Awards in the Hudson Valley:
- ShopRite Supermarkets Inc.
Consolidated Funding Application Workforce Development Initiative (CFA WDI) Amount: $251,690
Location: Florida
Purpose and Impact: Train 373 employees in food safety, leadership, and customer service within the retail grocery sector, supporting career development and job advancement for low to middle-skilled workers, promoting economic security. - Day One Early Learning Community, Inc.
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship (DEPA)
Amount: $195,000
Location: Poughkeepsie
Purpose and Impact: Prepare 30 individuals for careers in early childhood education, addressing the critical shortage of educators in Dutchess County. The program equips participants with essential skills in child development and STEAM education, helping alleviate the childcare crisis. - North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund (NASCTF)
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship (DEPA)
Amount: $195,000
Location: Greater Hudson Valley/Westchester
Purpose and Impact: Train 30 participants in carpentry skills, including drywall installation, framing, and concrete work. The program addresses the increased demand for skilled carpenters and provides participants with certifications and direct entry into the carpenters' apprenticeship. - Rockland Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES)
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship (DEPA)
Amount: $195,000
Location: West Nyack
Purpose and Impact: Train 30 individuals in construction and electrical skills, with an emphasis on workplace safety, blueprint reading, and Lean Manufacturing concepts. Participants will gain skills that are highly demanded in the local industry, with support services to ensure long-term career success. - Laborers’ Local #17 Training & Educational Fund
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship Program (DEPA)
Amount: $165,500
Location: Newburgh
Purpose and Impact: Provide pre-apprenticeship training for 27 individuals in construction and energy sectors, preparing them for union apprenticeships and enhancing job competitiveness. - Day One Early Learning Community, Inc.
Apprenticeship Expansion Grant (AEG)
Amount: $75,000
Location: Poughkeepsie
Purpose and Impact: Expand apprenticeship training for 5 individuals in the trade of Childcare Assistant, creating a pathway to increase the number of high-quality early childhood teachers in Dutchess County and bring recognition to the profession locally, statewide, and nationally.
As part of NYSDOL’s ongoing effort to highlight registered apprenticeships, the Department launched a new PSA promoting the benefits of becoming an apprentice. Individuals can find more information about apprenticeship opportunities on our website. While New York State businesses can visit NYSDOL’s dedicated page for grant funding opportunities.