The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) today announced the allocation of $821,948 in workforce development grants to boost skills training and employment opportunities in Central New York. 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 Central New York’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.
Summary of Grant Awards in Central New York:
Le Moyne College
Consolidated Funding Application Workforce Development Initiative (CFA WDI) Amount: $249,948
Location: Syracuse
Purpose and Impact: Provide healthcare communication and employability training for 18 individuals, supporting career advancement for refugees and immigrants, addressing healthcare workforce shortages.
Callahan Management Training Center Inc.
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship Program (DEPA)
Amount: $195,000
Location: Syracuse
Purpose and Impact: Provide pre-apprenticeship training for 30 women in advanced manufacturing, addressing gender disparities and preparing women for apprenticeships and career advancement in manufacturing.
CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship Program (DEPA)
Amount: $195,000
Location: Syracuse
Purpose and Impact: Provide pre-apprenticeship training for 30 individuals from marginalized communities in construction, breaking down barriers to employment and improving access to high-paying jobs in high-demand sectors.
Keith Titus Corporation
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship (DEPA)
Amount: $182,000
Location: Weedsport
Purpose and Impact: Provides 28 underrepresented individuals with foundational skills in diesel mechanics, including repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Targeting the trucking repair sector, participants receive both classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training, preparing them for entry into a New York State Registered Apprenticeship program.
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.