Program Overview
Today’s students will become tomorrow’s workforce, and educators have a crucial role in preparing their students for their future careers.
The New York State Department of Labor’s Teacher Ambassador Program is a four-week training program that takes place in July for teachers, librarians, and counselors in Grades 6 to 12. The Program focuses on developing and implementing career-readiness curricula for New York’s students by learning directly from local businesses and industry leaders.
Interested? If you are a business interested in being involved with the program or a business visit, please contact us through the TAP Business Interest Form.
Mission
The Teacher Ambassador Program inspires and equips educators to prepare NYS students for the future of work by bridging classroom learning to real-world opportunities. Through strategic partnerships with employers, workforce agencies, and community stakeholders, we cultivate the skills, knowledge, and confidence educators need to graduate students ready to thrive in high-demand careers and contribute to a robust New York workforce.
- Vision
Empowering educators with necessary resources to connect students with real-world careers, preparing NY students for the jobs of tomorrow.
- Values
- Collaboration: Fostering partnerships across schools, the Department of Labor, employers, and communities.
- Innovation: Championing creative approaches to link learning and careers.
- Equity: Ensuring all students have access to opportunities.
- Empowerment: Providing teachers with the tools and confidence to guide students.
- Impact: Measuring success through positive outcomes for students and communities.
- Growth: Continuously collaborating to meet evolving workforce needs.
Benefits of Participating in the Program
Businesses that participate in the Program will have the opportunity to connect directly with educators and provide them with firsthand experience and knowledge of the skills their students will need to enter the workforce.
Whatever the industry, the Program works to immerse educators in local businesses and provide access to key industry members, whose expertise and perspective is vital for aligning education with real-world experience.
At the end of the Program, Teacher Ambassadors will be able to bring these resources back to their school districts, where they can better prepare and educate students for career exploration and pathways to future employment.
Testimonials from Business Leaders
- Alexis V. from Optical Systems Technology, Monroe Community College
“We truly value our partnership with the Department of Labor and the Teacher Ambassador Program and are excited about the opportunities ahead.”
- Jonathan P. from SMART Local 46 (Sheet Metal Workers & HVAC/R Techs)
“It was great to have you, your team, and group of educators join us! We welcome you anytime and look forward to continuing to work together to share the amazing career opportunities available with us.”
- Julianna A. from GSE Dynamics, Inc.
“Our goal is to ensure students understand that manufacturing is not only a viable career option – it’s a rewarding and dynamic one. Thank you to the Teacher Ambassadors for your dedication to preparing the next generation of workforce!”
- Rich T. from Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association (RTMA)
“The more educators we can get to see the great companies and opportunities in advanced manufacturing, the better.”
- Robin M. from Goodwill Learning Academy
“It was clear that you had a super motivated group that were deeply engaged, and it left us feeling equally motivated!”