The Finger Lakes region will receive $96.2 million in state funds -- the largest awarded to any of the 10 regions -- for having one of the best plans in the Regional Economic Development Councils program. Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the awards Wednesday morning (Dec. 19) in Albany.
About $600,000 of the funds will support the Multiple Pathways to Middle Skills Jobs initiative, an MCC-led project that will provide hands-on training in health care, advanced manufacturing and skilled trades to at-risk high school students and displaced workers in an effort to fulfill the region’s critical need for middle-skill workers.
In partnership with school districts, workforce investment boards, industry groups and employers, MCC will provide training in three mobile simulation labs – one dedicated to each of the targeted industries. The labs will simulate a real-world work environment and will be equipped with materials and information related to each sector. In addition to receiving support services that promote their success, students will have an opportunity to participate in apprenticeships and internships and earn post-secondary certificates.
The goal of the project is to create seamless pathways that link careers to high school education and community college programs. The project is designed to be replicated across the country in all academic programs and industry sectors.
Hency Yuen-Eng
College and Community Relations
12/20/2012 |