Workforce Innovations

NYSDOL is Using Innovation to Shape the Empire State's Workforce of Tomorrow

When it comes to developing a future-ready talent pipeline, New York isn't just thinking outside the box - we're pioneering entirely new models to upskill, uplift, and upgrade our workforce. Through cutting-edge initiatives that embrace technology, prioritize equity, and meet people where they are, the New York State Department of Labor is revolutionizing how we prepare New Yorkers for economic opportunity.

Our innovations don't just respond to workforce needs. They redefine what workforce development looks like in the 21st century and beyond. From immersive virtual reality career exploration to artificial intelligence-powered job matching, we're bridging the gaps between motivated individuals and rewarding careers.

And our efforts to help New Yorker’s rise don't stop there. Embedding equitable practices that elevate underserved communities is core to our mission, whether it's cultivating inclusive pathways or transitioning existing workers into green jobs fueling New York's sustainable evolution. We're not just developing a workforce - we're fortifying an upgraded economy that uplifts and works for all New Yorkers.

The future of work is now. And New York is leading the charge through innovations that disrupt longstanding norms to empower both job seekers and businesses. Powered by technologies and partnerships forging new possibilities, we're creating a talent ecosystem versatile and resilient enough to meet whatever lies ahead.

State Workforce Surveys
The full survey results are available for anyone to explore. But far more importantly, these findings directly shape workforce development strategies across the entire state.
New York is upgrading how it connects job seekers to opportunities through cutting-edge technologies.
UPGRADE

Virtual Reality

The New York State Department of Labor is revolutionizing job exploration and training by immersing you in dynamic virtual reality experiences.
Virtual Reality
A child sitting down with a virtual reality headset on reaching out.

CDL Simulators

Through an exciting partnership with the Trucking Association of New York, we've rolled out a cutting-edge CDL simulator program to accelerate career training.
CDL Simulators
Driver of semi-truck sitting and driving his vehicle. Concept of shipping and deliverin

Virtual Career Center

NYSDOL has revolutionized career exploration with our cutting-edge Virtual Career Center, powered by advanced AI technology.
Virtual Career Center
Hands typing on laptop accessing Virtual Career Center application

Virtual Job Fairs

New York State Department of Labor is revolutionizing the job search experience with Virtual Job Fairs that bring opportunities directly to you.
Virtual Job Fairs
Caucasian business man talking with african male partner coach on video conference call discussing social distance work at virtual remote meeting videoconference chat using pc computer at home office.
Promoting equal access and uplifting underserved communities is central to New York's workforce development approach.
UPLIFT

Supporting NY’s Agriculture Industry

The New York State Department of Labor is taking an innovative approach to nurturing the next crop of agricultural talent.
Supporting NY’s Agriculture Industry
Cropped shot of two handsome young male farmers giving each other a fist bump while working in a crop field

SCION

Systems Change and Inclusive Opportunities Network (SCION) - removing obstacles for New Yorkers with disabilities to fully participate in the workforce.
SCION
Young man with Down syndrome and his SCION coach with arms around looking at camera

Educational Opportunity Centers Partnership

For too many New Yorkers, there are obstacles along the path to rewarding career opportunities. But an innovative partnership between the New York State Department of Labor and SUNY's Educational Opportunity Centers (EOCs) is tearing down those barriers.
Educational Opportunity Centers Partnership
Adult students in a computer lab learning. on desktop computers.

Assisting Asylum Seekers and Other New Arrivals

As tens of thousands of asylum seekers and migrants rebuild their lives in New York, the Department of Labor is rolling out the welcome mat to economic empowerment.
Assisting Asylum Seekers and Other New Arrivals
Group of ethnically diverse immigrant students wokring on laptops during lesson searching for information in Internet
New York is committed to upskilling its workforce through innovative programs that impart essential skills for the modern economy.
UPSKILL

Digital Literacy

The New York State Department of Labor is getting people up to speed through an innovative Digital Literacy Training program.
Digital Literacy
Mature man studying on desktop PC during computer class at local career center

Coursera

With over 120,000 New Yorkers having already completed over 1.7 million hours of learning, Coursera serves up personalized curriculums tailored to your career aspirations.
Coursera
Woman accessing Coursera website on laptop

Teacher Ambassador Program

Through our innovative Teacher Ambassador Program, we're equipping teachers and counselors with the real-world insights to guide New York's youth toward rewarding career possibilities.
Teacher Ambassador Program
Adult students in a computer lab learning. on desktop computers.