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Five companies and organizations in the Finger Lakes region have been awarded a total of more than $1 million in workforce development grants to boost skills training and employment opportunities.
The money is part of more than $7 million in grants announced last week as part of National Apprenticeship Week and New York State Apprenticeship Month.
The funds directly support businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofits delivering training programs focused on enhancing job readiness, closing skills gaps, and promoting career advancement.
Foodlink Inc. was the top local recipient. It was awarded a $300,000 apprenticeship expansion grant and $162,000 in direct entry pre-apprenticeship funding. Also receiving grants were:
■ Eastman Kodak Co., $285,000;
■ Rochester Tooling and Machining Institute/Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association, $195,000;
■ NYSARC Inc. Ontario County Chapter, $90,000; and
■ Ideal Manufacturing Inc., $40,000.
“These grants represent our commitment to strengthening New York State’s workforce by providing opportunities for skill development and job advancement,” said Roberta Reardon, state Department of Labor commissioner. “By investing in training and education, we are not only supporting individual career growth but also addressing critical workforce needs across the state.”
Among the program’s goals, it aims to help New Yorkers in disadvantaged communities, including the unemployed, underemployed, veterans, low-income residents and others facing employment barriers.
This is the third straight year Gov. Kathy Hochul has proclaimed November as New York State Apprenticeship Month.
Statewide, more than 17,000 apprentices are participating in about 900 registered apprenticeship programs that span a wide range of industries, including clean energy, cybersecurity, health care, information technology, financial services, child care, K-12 education, transportation, engineering, and advanced manufacturing.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor data, 94 percent of apprentices stay on with their employer after completing a registered apprenticeship program, with an average annual salary of $70,000.
Individuals can learn more about apprenticeship opportunities on the state Labor Department website. It also has information for businesses on grant funding opportunities.
Paul Ericson is Rochester Beacon executive editor. The Beacon welcomes comments and letters from readers who adhere to our comment policy including use of their full, real name. See “Leave a Reply” below to discuss on this post. Comments of a general nature may be submitted to the Letters page by emailing [email protected].
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