JCC Hosts Apprenticeship Education Industry Roundtable to Address Workforce Needs

On June 26, 2024, Jefferson Community College (JCC), in collaboration with the State University of New York (SUNY) Apprenticeship Program and the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL), held an apprenticeship education industry roundtable on JCC’s campus. The event gathered key stakeholders, representatives from local school districts including Indian River, Sackets Harbor, and Carthage along with participants from the Community Action Planning Council, Watertown Family YMCA, and Jefferson Campus Care.

The roundtable served as a pivotal platform for employers to engage in a robust dialogue aimed at addressing workforce needs and skill gaps within the education sector. Discussions focused on the development of innovative apprenticeship programs designed to cultivate a skilled and retainable workforce and available funding, up to $6,000 in SUNY grants, for employers.

Chris Pinheiro, Director of Apprenticeship and Infrastructure at the New York State Department of Labor said, “Registered Apprenticeships continue to help New Yorkers statewide into great occupations while also providing businesses with a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. We thank our partners, including the State University of New York and Jefferson Community College, for shining a spotlight on this effective model that is strengthening New York State’s workforce pipeline.”

Angelina Blank, Apprenticeship Business Developer from SUNY, presented on the funding offered through the Apprenticeship Programs at SUNY. “SUNY plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable apprenticeship programs by providing funding, including tuition assistance, supports and incentives to employers. Removing the financial constraints not only makes higher education more accessible but also broadens opportunities for individuals who may have considered college unattainable and allows employers to allocate training dollars to other areas. Our program truly is a win-win for everyone involved.”

Dr. Megan A. Stadler, Associate Vice President of Liberal Arts said, “The College is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting local employers through registered apprenticeships. This workforce solution empowers employers by combining paid on-the-job training with formal instruction enabling employees to master the knowledge, skills, and competencies essential for career success.”

Stakeholders expressed enthusiasm about continuing the momentum generated by the roundtable. Plans include further refining apprenticeship models and expanding partnerships to ensure broader participation and impact across the region.

Jefferson offers more than fifty academic programs including Teaching Assistant Level II and Level III microcredentials, and an Early Childhood microcredential (coming fall 2024).

Get started today! JCC is a trusted partner for NYS Registered Apprenticeships. Call the JCC Workforce Solutions office at (315) 786-2233 or email ced@sunyjefferson.edu.

About Jefferson Community College
Established on November 7, 1961, Jefferson Community College was the area’s first institution of higher education. Supervised by the State University of New York (SUNY), Jefferson offers 50+ associate degrees, certificates and microcredentials for career preparation or transfer; local access to bachelor’s and advanced degrees through partner institutions; lifelong learning through workshops and seminars; business and industry training; and provides community-based research and a forum for the productive discussion of ideas and issues of significance to the community through the Center for Community Studies. Jefferson is accredited by the Middle States Association and currently serves approximately 2,500 students, including a significant number of service members and their families. Please visit www.sunyjefferson.edu for more information.

About the SUNY Apprenticeship Program
The SUNY Apprenticeship Program supports employers with Registered Apprenticeship programs, as well as assists current and future Registered Apprentices. The Program offers related instruction tuition support, pre-apprenticeship training reimbursement, hiring and retention incentives for employers, and emergency student supports. These funds are made possible through appropriations in the New York State budget, with a portion administered in conjunction with the Empire State Development Office of Strategic Workforce Development.