May 2025

 

WDB HMO

News & Opportunities


Stay up to date with the latest job opportunities, training, and more on our website!


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WDB HMO and Partner News

WDB Alternatives to Incarceration (ATI) Grant Program Success


By WDB ATI Case Manager Shannon Holmes


Our first cohort of 2025 successfully completed our jail-based cognitive-behavioral program, which incorporates Interactive Journaling as a key component. All seven participants demonstrated commitment and self-reflection, setting personal goals such as pursuing education, improving self-control, and making positive life choices.


The program fosters a supportive environment where participants engage in meaningful discussions, learning from one another’s experiences. Older members share valuable insights from past hardships, helping younger participants recognize the consequences of their decisions and inspiring them to take a different path.


Throughout the sessions, participants actively apply cognitive-behavioral strategies, thoughtfully analyzing their thought patterns and behaviors while identifying steps for improvement. The dedication of these individuals was evident in their consistent journaling efforts, culminating in the completion of the program and the awarding of certificates.


This success highlights the program’s effectiveness in promoting self-awareness and personal growth. Moving forward, we remain committed to providing individuals with the tools necessary for lasting change, confident that structured interventions can lead to transformative outcomes.


Congratulations, Participants!

 

Madison County Working Solutions Career Center Success


By Madison County Working Solutions Counselor Assistant/ Youth Coordinator Angel Steiner


Cheers to another success story! An individual named Rena was required to come into the career center to fulfill requirements for her Public Assistance case. At her initial appointment, Rena seemed to have a lot of self-doubt with a lack of confidence in her ability to find employment while balancing barriers and this really hindered her outlook for the future. She also was facing personal barriers with transportation and housing.


With a little bit of guidance and assistance from the Career Center, Rena became employed and recognized her abilities to apply to college. She was accepted and began classes this Spring. Applying to college is not a typical next step clients decide to take, but working with Working Solutions motivated her to make that step of progress in her career.


Rena is now working part time while also attending school full time. Rena’s situation is a perfect example to reflect that it is possible to move forward in life, even with the biggest barriers and setbacks."


Congratulations, Rena!

 

📣 Attention All Pathway Home 2 Enrollees!



The Pathway Home 2 Program Team wants to remind you that you are still enrolled in the program — and there’s still time to receive your employment incentives!


✅ Are you currently employed?

If so, simply provide proof of employment through a weekly, bi-weekly pay stub, or your W-2 for the year. You may qualify for an incentive of up to $400 — that’s $100 or more for each quarter that you’ve worked!


⏳ The program ends on September 30, 2025 — only six months remaining to take advantage of this opportunity!


📞 Call us today at (315) 207-6951 Ext. 106 or Ext. 134

📍 Or stop by our office — processing takes just two days!

It’s that easy. We look forward to hearing from you!


— Pathway Home 2 Program Team

 

Workforce/Business News

NYATEP Announces New Interim Executive Director,

Board President David Fischer named Interim Executive Director; Louise McLoughlin appointed Board of Directors President 


ALBANY, NY — April 7, 2025 — The New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP), New York State’s leading industry group representing workforce development organizations and practitioners, today announced a new Interim Executive Director and Board President. David Fischer, a long-time workforce researcher, analyst, and former New York City public administrator, will step in as Interim Executive Director, while Dr. Louise McLoughlin, D.P.A., will assume the role of Board President. 


David Fischer comes to NYATEP following a 25-year career in workforce development. His early work in the field included positions as a researcher and analyst with the Center for an Urban Future and director of career and technical education programs at the NYC Department of Education. From 2015 to 2022, he served as the founding Executive Director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Youth Employment. Since leaving government, he has been Principal of Altior Policy Solutions, a consultancy based in Poughkeepsie, New York. Among David’s recent work, he authored NYATEP’s State of the Workforce reports for each of the last two years. 


“For as long as I have been in workforce development, NYATEP has provided invaluable service to the field through its insightful analysis, compelling advocacy campaigns, and best-in-class events and professional development training programs,” said newly appointed Interim Executive Director David Fischer. “At a time of great change in the labor market, I am deeply honored and excited for the opportunity to contribute to its vital work.”

 

In addition, the NYATEP Board of Directors has elected Dr. Louise McLoughlin, D.P.A. as Board President. Dr. McLoughlin currently serves as Executive Director of the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (WIB), a role she has held since 2017. At the WIB, Dr. McLoughlin has gained recognition for her innovative approach to program design and her leadership in building effective partnerships between the business community and the public workforce system. She has served on NYATEP’s Board since 2020. 


“NYATEP has been a major force in shaping fair workforce and economic development in New York. The organization’s impact isn't just about policy wins or successful programs—it's about the real, lasting changes it brings to communities and the success of business owners, staff, and life-long learners,” stated Dr. McLoughlin. “Being part of this next chapter is really personal and incredibly exciting for me. I'm committed to advancing NYATEP's mission with the same boldness, tenacity, and vision that has always defined this organization. We're not just reacting to the present—we're shaping the future. And I truly believe the best is yet to come.”

 

Brian Williams, who has served as NYATEP’s Board President since 2018, will now assume the role of Past President. Under his stewardship, the organization navigated significant milestones, including the transition from the federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA) to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), historic statewide investments in workforce development—such as the establishment of the Office of Strategic Workforce Development—and the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic passing of NYATEP’s longtime executive director, Melinda Mack, in 2023. Williams will continue to provide leadership and continuity in his new capacity on the board. 


“It has been an honor and privilege to serve NYATEP and the workforce development sector as Board President for the last six years,” stated Brian Williams, Executive Director, Capital Region Workforce Development Board. “As NYATEP moves into a new chapter, under the leadership of my esteemed colleague, Louise McLoughlin, I have no doubt that the organization will continue to grow, innovate, and transform the workforce development system for years to come. I look forward to continuing to support our mission and members in my new role as Past Board President.” 


As New York’s only statewide workforce association, NYATEP remains committed to its 50-year mission to advocate for the effectiveness of federally funded workforce programs and support skills training, education, and employment opportunities across the state. NYATEP’s membership base directly impacts the lives of over one million New Yorkers and thousands of businesses each year. 


Read More

 

First of Four Statewide ON-RAMP Locations Will Provide Job Training and Support Services for New Yorkers Pursuing Careers in Growing Advanced Manufacturing Sector

 

The Cornhill Empowerment Center will soon be offering

programming led by local nonprofits!


https://www.revitalizecornhill.com/empowerment-center/


 

Chobani Builds New $1 billion Yogurt Plant

that Will Create 1,000 jobs in Rome, NY


Read the article in Syracuse.com


Image courtesy Chobani

 

Herkimer-Oneida Counties Transportation Council  Survey



Herkimer-Oneida Counties Transportation Council (HOCTC) is working to update its Environmental Justice Analysis for 2025. Environmental justice plans emphasize the importance of involving communities in the development and implementation of environmental policies and projects. As such, HOCTC has prepared a survey to better understand community barriers to accessing the two-county transportation network.

 

Learn more/download the flyer

 

Please follow the below link to access the survey:  

 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/EJPlan2025

 

Opportunities for Job Seekers

WDB Free Training Grant Programs:

NOW ENROLLING!

The Workforce Development Board has learning/training grants that you may be eligible for!


View our Training Grant Programs Here and contact us to find out how we can help you jump start your career in a field you love.

 

Download the Flyer

 

FREE Online Workshops from the

NYS Department of Labor


>Resumes

>Interviewing

>Transferable Skills

>Job Search

>Networking

>And lots more!


Learn more/See more opportunities in your area from the Department of Labor

 

Start your career in construction with

BOCES Adult & Continuing Education


Heavy Equipment Operation


The focus of this course is hands-on experience with a dozer, loader, backhoe, skid steer excavator, and dump truck. Includes practical machinery care and daily maintenance. Student must provide suitable clothing for the operation of this machinery. Valid driver's license is required. First Aid/CPR and OSHA-10 included.

Students will also be required to purchase textbook and required supplies. 


May 19th - July 14th

Mondays - Thursdays, 3:00 - 8:00 PM

Saturdays, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Madison-Oneida BOCES, Verona

Tuition: $2600*


Call (315)361-5800 for registration


*payment plans available, call for enrollment


More information/register here

 

Increase your Skills, Collect Badges, Beef Up Your Resume and Stand Apart from the Crowd:

Take Classes for FREE on our Metrix Online Learning Platform!


• 7000+ online SkillSoft courses.  

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This FREE self-paced online skills training is available to all businesses and job seekers in Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties!


View the Catalog Here


SIGN UP HERE

 


GO HERE TO SEE LOCAL FEATURED JOB OPPORTUNITIES AND MORE UPCOMING HIRING EVENTS

 
 
 

In-person Mini Job Fair


May 15th from 1:00PM – 3:00PM at the Utica Career Center in the State Office Building, 207 Genesee Street, 2nd floor, Utica


IN UTICA MAY 1ST

 

IN HERKIMER MAY 7TH

 
 

VIEW THE HERKIMER WORKING SOLUTIONS CALENDAR TO SEE MORE VALUABLE EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES.

 

VIEW LARGER WITH CLICKABLE WATER SAFARI LINK

 
 

Send an Email

 

Job Seeker Resources


VALUABLE ONLINE RESOURCES provided by the WDB/Working Solutions.

 

Community Opportunities

Happy May!


Next Month's Issue:

Do you have something you'd like to share? A hiring event, learning/training opportunity, announcement, or community news? Photos are always welcome! Please email Jodi Delapaz,

Communications Coordinator:

jdelapaz@working-solutions.org

Workforce Development Board,

Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties, Inc.

209 Elizabeth Street

Utica, NY 13501


info@working-solutions.org

www.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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