The Workforce Development Board’s Building Pathways to Infrastructure Careers FREE training grant program can help supply the highly skilled workers you need, using good jobs principles to develop a workforce of the future.
Utica, NY – The Workforce Development Board, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida Counties’ Regional Apprenticeship Development & Readiness (RADAR) grant program is pleased to announce recently approved Apprenticeship programs concomitant with the U.S. Department of Labor’s efforts to expand and modernize Registered Apprenticeship by increasing the number of programs and apprentices, diversifying the industries that use Registered Apprenticeship and improving the access to Registered Apprenticeship Programs for underrepresented and underserved communities. These individuals receive career guidance, assessment and training in a chosen field, such as manufacturing, IT, human services or the trades at no cost to potential employers.
RADAR Program Manager Sommer Edwards says, “We are thrilled to share our active involvement in facilitating the launch of 17 new registered apprenticeship programs for businesses in our area. Our excitement stems from the profound impact these programs will have on fostering skill development, enhancing career opportunities, and bolstering our local economy. We are committed to supporting businesses every step of the way as they embark on this journey, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and resources to create meaningful apprenticeship experiences. Together, we look forward to building a robust network of skilled professionals who will contribute to the growth and success of our community.”
According to the Department of Labor, employers who utilize apprentices report higher productivity, higher retention rates, and a substantial return on investment.
Sitrin Health Care Center Vice President Foundation & Communications Marc DePerno says, “The Sitrin Health Care Center is excited to be recently approved as a New York State Registered Apprenticeship Program in Building Maintenance Mechanics. The apprenticeship program provides a unique opportunity to enhance workforce development and creates a learning environment that breeds success. Upon approval, we immediately identified two apprentice candidates who are currently completing the enrollment process.”
State Wide Autos Co-owner Andrew Bennett says, “With today’s ever-changing automotive industry, we are appreciative of the opportunity for our company to participate in the NYS Department of Labor Apprenticeship Training Program and also for the support we receive from the Workforce Development Board. We recently registered our first employee, JC, in the Automotive Service Technician trade. All the program staff we are working with are very helpful and professional and we would encourage other companies to explore this beneficial opportunity for both their company and employees.”
Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL) Executive Vice President of Corporate Resources Amy Dewan says, “Each apprenticeship job posting has received interested candidates, and two candidates have recently been hired for the two Human Resources Associate positions. One Human Resources Associate is working with employee benefits and the other is working with hiring direct care workers. The apprenticeships provide opportunities for individuals to apply for positions that they are interested in without having the work experience or education that may be necessary if they were not apprentices. It has allowed the two apprentices hired in RCIL’s Human Resources department to learn about Human Resources and begin assisting with benefits and hiring job responsibilities.”
Apprenticeship programs help employers:
The Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison, Oneida Counties, Inc. (WDB HMO) serves as a leader for workforce development programs and services, and as a regional partner, creating impactful strategies to meet the region’s immediate and long-term workforce needs and economic development priorities.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of hosting an apprenticeship or starting an apprenticeship program, please contact RADAR Program Director Sommer Edwards at 315.207.6951, ext. 133 or
This grant program operates in Onondaga, Cortland, Oneida, Madison, Chenango, Herkimer, Otsego, Delaware, Fulton, Montgomery, and Schoharie.
The RADAR grant project is 100% funded by a United States Department of Labor - Employment and Training Administration’s (ETA) award of $2,999,993. Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
Contract Period: August 15, 2024 to August 14, 2025
* At its discretion the WDB may amend contracts based on performance and funding availability, and/or renew contracts for up to 4 consecutive contract periods based on performance and funding availability, through June 30, 2028.
Essential Information w/Dates
Release Date July 12, 2024
Deadline for Submission July 26, 2024
Workforce Board Approval August 9, 2024
Formal Award Notification August 9, 2024
Target Start Date August 15, 2024
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The Workforce Development Board, Herkimer, Madison, and Oneida Counties, Inc. (WDB HMO), DBA Working Solutions, is part of the Public Workforce System, a network of federal, state, and local offices that support economic expansion and develop the talent of the nation’s workforce.
Online resources and personal assistance by Advisers at the Working Solutions centers combine to help you maximize the tools needed for an effective job search.
Learn more about what Working Solutions can do for your business.
Working Solutions
209 Elizabeth Street
Utica, New York 13501
