January/February 2025

The Workforce Development Board (WDB) of

Herkimer, Madison & Oneida Counties'

Apprenticeship 

News & Opportunities

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Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week – 10th Annual Kickoff!


By Apprenticeship Project Director Sommer Edwards


"On Monday, November 18th, the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison, and Oneida counties, Inc., had the privilege of hosting a special kickoff event to celebrate the 10th Annual National Apprenticeship Week.


"A heartfelt thank you to our employer, educator, and community partners who dedicated their time to attend the event. Your engagement and support are key to making Apprenticeship opportunities more accessible to the next generation of skilled workers.


"During the event, we were fortunate to showcase a panel of local apprentices, both past and present, from the Carpenters Union, Electricians Union, Ironworkers Union, Plumbers & Steamfitters Union, and Indium, who shared invaluable insights into the Registered Apprenticeship experience from their unique perspectives. Their stories helped to highlight the real-world benefits of Apprenticeships and how these programs can serve as transformative pathways to rewarding, sustainable careers.


"We also had the chance to connect with local employers, educational institutions, and community organizations who are eager to continue working together to expand Apprenticeship opportunities for students, job seekers, and workers looking to upskill. The excitement and positive feedback from attendees was incredible, and I’m inspired by the momentum we’re building to support non-traditional career paths and broaden the pathways to success.


"Thank you again to everyone who participated. Your commitment to Apprenticeships is making a lasting impact in our communities, and we’re excited to continue this important work together!"

 

Businesses: We have On-The-Job Training Funding

Questions? Contact Sommer Edwards - 315-207-6951 ext.133

 
Job Seekers: We can help you jumpstart your new career

Apply Today at radarjoin.com

Questions? Contact Sommer Edwards - 315-207-6951 ext.133

 

Celebrating Talent Development in Manufacturing!


By Apprenticeship Project Director Sommer Edwards


"On Tuesday, November 19th, we had the privilege of attending MACNY & MVCC’s Salute to Manufacturing event.


"This special event highlighted the power of talent development at all levels—from Pre-Apprenticeships to Registered Apprenticeships as well as engagement with K-12. The event also recognized manufacturers who open their doors to the community and provide invaluable Registered Apprenticeship pathways.


"At the event, a graduation ceremony was also hosted for Real Life Rosies and Advance 2 Apprenticeship students. It is so wonderful to see our communities’ efforts being celebrated as we work together towards expanding and sustaining Apprenticeship opportunities for all."

 
 
 

Interested in Joining the Laborers' Union?

Here are some certifications we can pay for:


  • Flagger
  • Aerial Platform/Boom Lift/ Scissor Operator
  • Trench & Excavation
  • Scaffold Safety
  • OSHA
  • Confined Space Awareness
  • Rigger Signalman/Operator Safety


To learn more contact Sommer Edwards:

sedwards@working-solutions.org

315-207-6951 ext.133

 

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week with NYS Dept. of Labor Commissioner Reardon!


By Apprenticeship Project Director Sommer Edwards


"On Wednesday, November 20th, the Regional Apprenticeship Development and Readiness (RADAR) grant staff had the honor of joining our community partners in welcoming NYS Department of Labor Commissioner Reardon to Fiber Instrument Sales in Oriskany, NY, to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week!


"The event featured a tour of the facility, remarks from CEO Frank Giotto, elected officials, and Commissioner Reardon, followed by the ceremonial enrollment of 12 employees into the NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program.


"It has been a privilege to collaborate with Fiber Instrument Sales in offering Pre-Apprenticeship training and supporting their ongoing commitment to providing growth opportunities for their employees. We’re excited to see how these Apprenticeships continue to empower individuals and help them advance within the organization as they pursue their career paths!"

 

Send an email

 
 

Highlighting the Impact of the RADAR Grant on

Workforce Development!


By Apprenticeship Project Director Sommer Edwards


"I had the pleasure of speaking at the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison, and Oneida counties, Inc., Partners and Staff Forum on Thursday, November 21st, to share the mission behind the Regional Apprenticeship Development and Readiness (RADAR) grant and celebrate the incredible successes we've seen over the past two years.


"The RADAR grant has been instrumental in addressing the urgent need for workers in critical regional industries and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to enter meaningful employment.


"Our focus has been on:

- Uniting agencies to break down barriers job seekers face when entering the workforce

- Creating tailored training programs to bridge skill gaps

- Developing and sustaining Registered Apprenticeship programs in emerging occupations


"Program Goals:

- Addressing workforce shortages in key economic sectors

- Providing people with disabilities opportunities to enter employment

- Supporting individuals through the journey from pre-apprenticeship to full Apprenticeship


"It’s been exciting to see these goals come to life across Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Fulton, Montgomery, Schoharie, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Cortland, and Onondaga counties.


"Here are some of our incredible successes:

- 529 individuals enrolled

- 383 entered pre-apprenticeship training

- 308 successfully completed pre-apprenticeship training

- 109 entered Registered Apprenticeship programs

- 210 gained new employment opportunities

- 17 Registered Apprenticeship program developed

- 20 Pre-Apprenticeship trainings developed


"Eligibility: County residents, ages 18+, self-attest to a disability (for a full list of disabilities, visit https://askjan.org/a-to-z.cfm).


"We’re proud to be helping individuals gain valuable skills, build sustainable careers, and strengthen our regional workforce. Looking forward to continued collaboration and success in the future!"

 

VISIT NASCTF.ORG

 


What Are Apprenticeships in Carpentry? Definition, Benefits and Steps

 

You’ll never worry about AI stealing your job working in these trades



What are the benefits of apprenticeships for employers?


DYK We can help you start an apprenticeship program?


Contact us for more information!



 

Like us on Facebook

Apprenticeships are a "hot topic" in the news!


We are keeping up with national and local news on our Apprenticeship Facebook Page including:

  • Reports & trending news,
  • Success stories (apprentices, students, schools, employers & stakeholders),
  • Government news,
  • Apprenticeship tips,
  • Local events and opportunities,
  • And more!


Please like/follow us here:

https://www.facebook.com/ApprenticeshipCNY

About the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison, & Oneida (HMO) Counties, Inc.

The role of the local Workforce Development Board (WDB) is system focused and strategic in nature. As a decision-making entity, the WDB determines priorities of service, negotiates measures, facilitates integration, and ensures quality outcomes. By understanding workforce development needs, anticipating trends, and focusing on system outcomes and performance, the WDB can effect substantial long-term change in the economic well-being of the community.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Have Questions? 

Please Contact us!

Alice Savino, Executive Director

asavino@working-solutions.org


 
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration. This product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.


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