The Center for Workforce Development’s mission to support adult learners in their quest for career training was recently made a million times easier. The department has been awarded more than $1 million in grants over the past three months.
CWD is one of 17 projects across the state to be awarded a Workforce Development Capital and Pay for Performance Grant by the New York State Office of Strategic Workforce Development.
"New York is committed to developing a strong and diverse workforce, and investing in our workers is the most important investment we can make," said Governor Kathy Hochul. "This new round of strategic workforce development grants will help New Yorkers acquire the skills they need to succeed in today's economy, while supporting employer-driven, high-skilled training programs that will help New Yorkers thrive in the jobs of the future."
The $700,000 grant will fund the Electrical Careers Expansion project to establish three short-term, comprehensive programs: Electrical Fundamentals for the Construction Trade, Industrial and Mechanical Electrical, and Industrial Operator. Developed in partnership with local stakeholders, the training will feature hands-on instruction, practice on portable workstation learning systems, and industry-recognized certification, as well as career skills and job placement.
“With this funding, we will be able to acquire state-of-the-art instructional trainers, develop curriculum materials, and offer low-cost/no-cost tuition to students,” said CWD Director Shawna Gareau-Kurtz. “This grant not only validates the outstanding work we have done so far but also opens up new avenues for growth and impact within our department.”
In addition to the state grant, CWD was selected to receive a $200,000 grant from ESL to enhance short-term career training programs.
“The ESL grant will play a crucial role in strengthening our ability to provide comprehensive and impactful career training opportunities to our students,” said Gareau-Kurtz. “With this funding, we can further enhance our existing curriculum, purchase training equipment, and offer additional support services to ensure an enriching experience for our students.”
CWD has also been the beneficiary of more than $100,000 in additional grants in recent months, bringing the total to more than $1 million dollars.
“These grants are a testament to the exceptional reputation we have built and the confidence that external organizations have in our abilities,” added Gareau-Kurtz. “We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the positive changes we will bring about in the lives of our students.”