Employers in the Mohawk Valley have access to a large, capable workforce.
The Mohawk Valley is looking to the future by investing time and resources to train the 21st Century workforce in our target industries like manufacturing and information technology. An educated workforce is the foundation of a thriving economy, from higher education accreditation to upskilling or apprenticeship programs. Not only does the Mohawk Valley, attract talented workers from all over the world, the region also offers a robust educational system and resources for growing tomorrow’s business leaders.
In August 2022, we welcomed site selectors Monty Turner and Andrew Ratchford to speak on national workforce trends at the local level. See below for their presentation, highlighting how our region is doing while encountering ongoing trends:
KEEPING WORKFORCE ON COURSE
In 2022, the Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Council’s workgroup identified four regional priority sectors: Advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, unmanned aerial systems, and agribusiness. According to MVREDC’s 2022 Mohawk Valley Progress Report, manufacturing wage growth outpaced inflation at an average rate of 3.2% per year, demonstrating the upward economic mobility this industry offers for many low-and middle-skilled workers. About 29% of the Mohawk Valley region’s manufacturing sector job postings require at least a high school diploma or GED, and 36% require a bachelor’s degree. Over half of the manufacturing postings had no experience requirement listed, 15% required 2-3 years of experience, and 15% required 4-6 years of experience.
INDUSTRY SPECIFIC TRAINING NEEDS
EDGE has partnered with the Workforce Investment Board and our Colleges and Universities to align training needs with industry demands. Successful programs include the MVCC Airframe and Powerplant Program and the MVCC UAS Program.
Workforce skill development initiatives have enhanced the region’s ability to meet industry demands. Workforce training has included brownfield remediation, skilled trades development (electricians, welders, HVAC). Customized training options for new and existing employers may be available through the Workforce Development Board. Additional resources include MACNY (Manufacturers Association of Central New York, Inc.) and Advanced Institute for Manufacturing.
Have a training need? Contact us and we can identify the steps needed to get a program up and running!
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
The Mohawk Valley’s Working Solutions One-Stop Career Centers ensure employers have access to the local skilled, qualified workforce. The One-Stops offer a full spectrum of business services and link employers to local, state and federal resources.
APPRENTICESHIP AND INTERNSHIP PARTNERSHIPS
Connect Mohawk Valley offers a wide range of opportunities for apprenticeships and internships that are paid, unpaid, credit-bearing, or non-credit-bearing. This website connects local businesses with emerging talent.
Connect Mohawk Valley facilitates on-the-job learning opportunities between high school students, college students and local businesses in the Mohawk Valley. Connect Mohawk Valley is a collaboration between The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc., Mohawk Valley EDGE, and the Workforce Development Board Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties.
Current opening include apprenticeships for carpenters, bricklayers, electricians, engineers, HVAC and building trades among many others.
Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) is a new course offering an integrated high school and college curriculum focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), while also providing workplace skills including leadership, communication and problem-solving. Students will experience internships with P-TECH business and industry partners and, upon graduation, will be regarded as viable candidates for employment with these partnering agencies.
Looking to set up an apprenticeship program at your businesses? Contact us and we can get you connected to the right people!
