DeWITT, N.Y. — MACNY, the Manufacturers Association plans to expand the Real Life Rosies and the Advance 2 Apprenticeship direct entry pre-apprenticeship programs to both Onondaga and Oswego counties.
The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) has awarded DeWitt–based MACNY $195,000 under the Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship (DEPA) program to help in the expansion.
As part of the effort, MACNY is partnering with employers, education providers, and community-based organizations, such as Berry Global; Constellation; Giovanni Foods Company; JMA Wireless; N.E.T. & Die, Inc.; Cayuga Community College; Onondaga Community College; Refugee & Immigration Self-Empowerment (RISE); and the Oswego Workforce Development Board.
Real Life Rosies is the first NYSDOL approved direct entry pre-apprenticeship program in New York State for advanced manufacturing, per the MACNY announcement. The program supports the training and skill development of women and individuals in underrepresented populations looking to pursue careers in advanced manufacturing. Through company tours and guaranteed job interviews, the program helps connect employers with skilled and job-ready individuals.
The Real Life Rosies program was launched in the Mohawk Valley in collaboration with Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC); The Workforce Development Board, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida Counties, Inc.; and community partners, with funding from Empire State Development’s Office of Strategic Workforce Development.
In partnership with MVCC and the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities at the University of Rochester, the Advance 2 Apprenticeship program is designed to increase access to apprenticeship, catering to individuals with and without disabilities who may benefit from additional support.
“As the first two direct-entry programs in New York State, we’re excited to announce the expansion of the Real Life Rosies and Advance 2 Apprenticeship programs into Onondaga and Oswego counties,” Randy Wolken, president & CEO of MACNY, said in the announcement. “By providing supportive services, such as transportation and childcare, these programs are designed to address the real-life challenges that individuals face when trying to join the manufacturing workforce. With teamwork and collaboration between community partners, educational institutions, and local manufacturers, Real Life Rosies and Advance 2 Apprenticeship exemplify an innovative approach to diversify and strengthen the manufacturing industry.”