The Workforce Development Board is Hiring Case Managers in Utica!

Full-time/35-hour work week

The Case Manager will be responsible for recruitment, intake and case management of participants; oversee training and/or employment placement of participants; and coordinate services with partner training providers and employers.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent interpersonal skills, with ability to counsel and coach with skill and success.

• Ability to collaborate and maintain positive working relationships with others.

• Thorough understanding of local, state, and federal agencies and their policies.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

• Extremely organized and meticulous with details.

• Excellent project management skills and ability to prioritize work and resources.

• Ability to meet deadlines.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in related field preferred, or relevant work experience.

• Experience in human services.

• Demonstrated commitment to customer service.

• Experience working with people with disabilities and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Details and Benefits:

• Typical working hours are 8am-4pm, with flexible time available

• 401K Matching

• Health and Dental, and an HRA

• Two weeks' vacation

• Two weeks of sick time

• At least 14 paid holidays

Salary Range: $45,000-50,000

To Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter to  kbetti@working-solutions.org

Mohawk Valley EDGE Executive Committee has Appointed WDB Board Member Shawna Papale President of Mohawk Valley EDGE

Congratulations, Shawna!

Papale was previously appointed Acting President after the passing of Steve DiMeo last year. Papale has been with EDGE since 1996, starting as a program manager and working her way up to the position of Chief Administrative Officer. "I’m so pleased that Shawna Papale has been officially named president of Mohawk Valley EDGE,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “Having worked alongside her for years, I know firsthand the passion, expertise and commitment she brings to every project. Shawna is the perfect leader to help guide our region’s growth and success, and I’m excited to continue working with her to make a lasting impact on Oneida County and the Mohawk Valley."

Chairman of the EDGE Executive Committee Justin Hummel said, "Throughout the years, Shawna has consistently shown exceptional skill, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication to the growth and mission of EDGE. She has established and continues to nurture strong relationships with partner organizations, including businesses in the Mohawk Valley, financial institutions, education and workforce organizations, and elected officials."

"I am honored to be named President of Mohawk Valley EDGE," said Shawna Papale. "EDGE is dedicated to fulfilling our mission of fostering growth in the Mohawk Valley region for years to come."

Read the full article in the Observer-Dispatch

Welcome, New WDB YouthBuild Grant Program Director

Mitch Geddes!

A little about Mitch:

Mitch is from Holland Patent. He graduated from SUNY Oneonta in 2007 with a bachelor's degree in communication studies.

In 2005, Mitch held the role of Youth Counselor for the Oneida County Summer Youth Program. He has since held various roles for the Workforce Development Board and Mohawk Valley Community College. Mitch is an authorized OSHA Instructor and is available to teach 10-Hour or 30-Hour OSHA for construction workers. 

During summer months, you will likely find Mitch on one of the local golf courses. During fall and winter months, Mitch is an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and enjoys watching the New York Knicks. 

As YouthBuild Program Director, he will focus on youth who have dropped out of high school, offering opportunities to expand their skills to further their employment opportunities. 

To contact Mitch, call ext. 109 or email mgeddes@working-solutions.org

WDB Human Services Pre-Apprenticeship Program Success

By Business Services Representative Caitlin McSorley 

"WDB apprenticeship grant participants recently completed the first cohort of our Human Services Pre-Apprenticeship Program, during which participants learned in-demand transferable skills specific to the Human Services industry and earned their Mental Health First Aid Certification.

"Our graduates left inspired and informed, eager to explore new opportunities in the human services career field, which include Direct Service Providers/Direct Care Professionals, Medical Technician Assistants, Case Managers, CNAs, and administrative positions. 

"On completion of the cohort, the WDB sponsored an Employer Day where we welcomed 12 dynamic employers who showcased their organizations and shared invaluable insights into the Human Services industry. The event fostered meaningful connections, with engaging presentations that sparked conversations and collaboration. A big thank you to all of the organizations who participated! 

Congratulations, Cohort Participants!

If your organization is interested in presenting at our next Employer Day, please reach out to WDB Business Services Representative Caitlin McSorley at ext.145 or cmcsorley@working-solutions.org.

WDB YouthBuild Program Success

Despite facing significant challenges, one dedicated YouthBuild participant not only continued attending classes but also secured full-time employment at a local grocery store. His determination to improve his circumstances has been evident in his unwavering commitment to education and personal growth.

He recently reached a significant milestone by earning his GED, marking the culmination of his hard work in his secondary education. But he isn’t stopping there. He has also successfully completed his National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certification. This qualification opens the door to numerous career opportunities in the construction industry. Additionally, he has earned an OSHA 10 card, enhancing his desirability to potential employers.

His journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience and underscores the importance of support systems that foster personal development. Through perseverance and determination, he is not only transforming his own life but also inspiring those around him. His story is a reminder that with dedication and support, overcoming obstacles is possible.

Congratulations, YouthBuild Participant!

Madison County Working Solutions Success

By Madison County Working Solutions Workforce Development Counselor Autumn Moon

"Zach came into Madison County’s Career Center seeking help with advancement in his career in August 2024. He was actively working for a local organization using a CDL-B but wanted to be able to do more for his employer. He came to the career center hoping we would be able to fund him for CDL-A training after receiving advice from the training facility on how to pay for his tuition.

"Zach was patient and understanding while he met with a counselor to discuss the process for getting funded. Once he was accepted for funding, he was immensely grateful for the assistance and went above and beyond with expressing his appreciation.

"Zach completed the training and passed his road test with zero issues, which led to him securing a raise/new position with his employer! Zach is just one of many clients who have had successful training and employment services through Madison County’s Career Center. If you are interested in expanding your skillset and advancing your career like Zach, contact the Career Center to see how we can help you!"

Congratulations, Zach!

To contact Autumn, call or email autumn.moon@madisoncounty.ny.gov

Pathway Home 2 (PH2) Grant Program Grant Success

By PH2 Grant Program Lead In-Facility Counselor Loretta M. Young

"Edward joined the PH2 grant program in March 2022. He was hard of hearing, and it required patience to understand him. As we worked with Edward, we learned that when he was just a teenager, one day he came home from school and found the police at his home. His mother and father had been robbed and murdered. We cannot imagine the trauma this caused Edward, requiring counseling for many years.

"Edward went on to graduate from high school and subsequently earned his bachelor's degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). He then worked at several local manufacturing businesses over the years.

"We continued to work with Edward throughout his time at the Oneida County Jail. During this time, he completed the programs that we offer: Interactive Journaling, Ready, Set, Work and we prepared an updated resume for him.

"After his release, because he was homeless, we set up an appointment for him with the Department of Social Services and also with Acces VR for additional services. Edward lived at a community-based housing facility for some time and then he was able to secure an apartment through the Section 8 program. He finally got a primary physician, and he was able to have surgery on his ears; however, that surgery was not successful. His benefits provided him with a Bluetooth hearing aid that he could use with his phone.

"In September 2023, Edward was hired part-time at a local outreach center. After proving his dedication and determination, he was promoted to a full-time position in July 2024. He is now responsible for their food pantry, as well as multiple other departments. In 2025, he plans on completing an HVAC training program.

"Edward says his goal and vision for the food pantry is to turn the food pantry into a "next generation" food pantry, meaning that the pantry would operate as a grocery store and a traditional food pantry, which may be a first for the area.

"Edward says he is grateful to the PH2 Team for always being there for him. We are very happy with how well he is doing."

Congratulations, Edward!

Herkimer Working Solutions Out of School Youth Program Successes

By Herkimer Working Solutions Employment & Training Director Nicole Wilson

"Sam came to us in October 2024. She was an 18-year-old high school dropout, working at a local grocery store and a local nursing home, unsure of what she wanted to do. She started working with the Herkimer BOCES GED program located within Herkimer Working Solutions and started working with Career Center staff to figure out what her next steps were going to be once she got her GED. Because Sam took and passed all of her regents' exams in high school, she only had to take one section of the GED. Sam sat for her English Language Arts (ELA) exam in December and PASSED! With her newfound confidence, she started the CNA program at the nursing home in December and plans to work there full time while thinking of her next steps. Congratulations Sam!

"Yesenia walked into the career center in the summer of 2023, one semester into her nursing degree. Yesenia had always dreamed of being a nurse and was seeking financial assistance to continue with training. As a young mom, she wanted to be able to show her son that you can do anything you set your mind to. With the assistance of the Youth program and scholarship funding, Yesenia successfully completed her nursing degree in December 2024 and has a job lined up to start in January 2025 at a local hospital! There, she will study to take the state exam for nursing professionals to officially become a Registered Nurse in the state of New York. Congratulations Yesenia!

"James came to us in the Fall of 2024, new to the area and sleeping on the couches of friends, unsure of his future. Desperate for some direction, James came into the career center looking for assistance with finding a job. After he started working with the Youth program, James came to the realization that he wanted to work in a field where he was helping people. After getting interview prep and assistance with his resume, he applied to Herkimer BOCES and has been employed as a Teacher’s Aide at a local school district since November of 2024. James now thinks he may want to pursue a career in education! In addition, James worked with Youth Program staff on financial literacy skills and worked hard at finding an apartment. Congratulations James!"

____________________

The Herkimer Working Solutions Out of School Youth Program assists individuals aged 18-24 who are no longer attending school and who have a barrier to employment. This program aims to assist individuals with meeting their employment and/or education goals. Services are very customizable based on what each individual is seeking. Enrollment is open year-round. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the program, reach out to the Youth Employment Specialist, Makayla, at 315-867-1400 or mmiller@herkimercountyny.gov

THIS PROGRAM IS AVAILABLE AT ALL WORKING SOLUTIONS LOCATIONS

Schumer: CHIPS Funding Is Locked in for Micron to

Build in Upstate NY

Finalized agreement ensures Micron can tap CHIPS funding to invest more than $100 billion in New York over the next 20+ years creating up to 50,000 good paying jobs.

Read the release

By Shawna Papale, President

Mohawk Valley EDGE

"It has been one of the most challenging years for Mohawk Valley EDGE. This past March, we lost our beloved leader, mentor, friend, and founder, Steve DiMeo. We grieved his loss, honored his accomplishments, and did what he would have wanted us to do: go out and get back to work.

"The work, while at times challenging, is tremendously rewarding. The entire team at EDGE is committed to being champions for our region. That was Steve's motto from the beginning. There's little time to celebrate the completion of one project before we're already pursuing the next, and honestly, that's how we prefer it. We take pride in our work, seeking always to punch above our weight class, and are always eager to meet with local officials, business leaders, and industry professionals to update them on our initiatives. We enjoy sharing our story about collaborating with regional partners to strengthen the Mohawk Valley economy.

"Our community, much like EDGE, comes together when we face adversity. In July, we

experienced one of the most unprecedented weather events in our history when a tornado swept through the City of Rome, causing millions of dollars’ worth of damage, severely damaging homes, buildings, and facilities. With support from our government partners quickly activated, EDGE, Griffiss Local Development Corporation, and the Oneida County Industrial Development Agency sprang into action, ensuring that businesses impacted by the storm had the resources they needed to safely re-open. Much credit goes to all first responders, volunteers, and government officials for ensuring all available resources were deployed to get Romans back on their feet.

"Oneida County's Triangle Parcel site at Griffiss International Airport continues to be a key focus for EDGE as we seek to facilitate future development. Last year, Oneida County received a $23.6 million FAST NY Grant to develop the infrastructure for the 332-acre site. This funding will also support the expansion of the current substation in collaboration with Griffiss Utilities Services Corporation, allowing for an additional 50 megawatts of electricity. Providing shovel readiness gives Oneida County a golden opportunity to bring in another major manufacturing company to the region. We are actively collaborating with county officials, including Oneida County Executive Picente, to ensure we focus on future development.

"There is ongoing growth at the Marcy Nanocenter, supported by the recent $750 Million in Federal funding through the CHIPS & Science Act investment for Wolfspeed. This funding, totaling over $2.5 billion in public and private investment, will enhance operations and production of silicon carbide chips at Marcy. We are thrilled to see job numbers in the Mohawk Valley surpass our initial projections. Additionally, we are actively marketing the lower parcel of the Nanocenter to attract other semiconductor companies.

"Through leadership by Oneida County, The EDGE Planning Team, the Town of New Hartford, and the Mohawk Valley Health System to redevelop the former St. Luke's campus for MVHS. This year, we conducted four public engagement sessions, and based on the feedback received, we unveiled several concepts that can be applied as the site is redeveloped for future use. EDGE received a $500,000 EPA Round II County Wide Assessment Grant to help address blighted, underutilized, or contaminated sites. We are actively targeting more than a dozen priority sites for this funding, including the former St. Luke’s site, which will lead to the development of several specific EDGE projects.

"We are proud to work to restore our local communities. This year, Boonville received a $4.5 Million NY Forward Grant that EDGE is supporting through collaboration with the Village's Local Planning Committee. In addition, we are supporting the Village of Oriskany with their application and expect to learn more about the outcome soon.

"We strive to target major companies like Wolfspeed. However, EDGE is dedicated to supporting small businesses. In the final quarter of this year, we have assisted several small businesses, including Kris Tech Wire, Lodging Kit Company, and Rome Electronics, by providing outreach support and informing them about upcoming financial assistance programs and services.

"Partnerships are crucial to our success. We would not be where we are today without the support of our EDGE Board, our partner organizations, local officials, friends, and family. We are happy to report that the State of Mohawk Valley EDGE is strong. We continue to push forward to deliver on our mission to grow our region's economy and provide for our business community. We are just getting started."

Reprinted by permission from The Genesis Group 

 Child Care Creation and Expansion Tax Credit and

Business Navigator Child Care toolkit

The Child Care Creation and Expansion Tax Credit application portal opens Jan. 1, 2025. If your business helped create and occupy new child care seats for your employees, apply now.

https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare/initiatives/creation-credit.php

The Business Navigator Child Care toolkit is designed to support employers who want to assist their employees with securing quality, affordable child care services for their children. 

Madison County Small Business Summit

"The Small Business Summit is coming to Madison County on January 15th at SUNY Morrisville. Whether you're a rural small business owner, a solopreneur, or an aspiring entrepreneur, attend to connect with regional resources for small businesses and learn valuable skills to start or grow your business!"

Register Here

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.

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.  

2300+ in Spanish

• "TPC" Courses – over 900 construction and manufacturing courses, OSHA 10 license

• Mobile phone training in an “all game” format

150 different topics in both English and Spanish

Courses include: audio, video, closed captioning, lectures, simulations, and quizzes and tests in interactive modules.

Topics include: IT, Microsoft Office, sales, software, workplace skills, and many more.

• Self Sign-Up
• Go At Your Own Pace
• Take as Many Classes as You Want

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

Send an Email

See more opportunities at Herkimer Working Solutions/View January Calendar

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

New Spring 2025 Catalog Arrives Soon

The BOCES Adult & Continuing Education division’s Spring 2025 catalog will be hitting mailboxes by the first two weeks of January. The Spring 2025 catalog includes new and updated professional development courses for educators, healthcare professionals, and even NYS Licensed Nail Technicians and Cosmetologists. Those just looking to get out of the house and learn something new will find many new and returning favorites in the fitness, culinary, and hobby section of the catalog. 

Lastly, all certificate programs in the Madison-Oneida BOCES Adult & Continuing Education catalog (100+ hour career training programming) are now accredited through the Council on Occupational Education following an initial in-depth program review process. These programs meet the required educational standards of the council and provide quality education to those starting a career in trades, healthcare, or cosmetology-related fields.

Anyone interested in having a catalog mailed directly to them, please email Rachel Burleigh, Vocational Coordinator: rburleigh@bocescce.org or Debra Leahy, Site Team Leader: dleahy@bocescce.org

Send an Email

NYS Department of Labor Virtual Job Fair Save the date!

January 22, 2025 – Central NY/Mohawk Valley Regional Virtual Career Fair 11:00AM – 2:00PM. More information to come. Subscribe to our website blog to get notified.

Send an Email

Send an Email

Workshop is also available in Herkimer:

VALUABLE ONLINE RESOURCES Provided by the Workforce Development Board/Working Solutions

Email Halliee

Happy New Year!

Next Month's Issue:

Do you have something you'd like to share? A hiring event, learning/training opportunity, announcement, community news, program news, staff news, success story or personal achievement? 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.