Workforce programs in “Syracuse Surge” seek applicants

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Some “Syracuse Surge”-led workforce-training and advancement programs are seeking applicants from the City of Syracuse.

The programs seek to guide applicants toward in-demand, local careers in high-tech manufacturing. Programs include electrical-mechanical technician and surge-advanced manufacturing, each with opportunities for training, career exploration and networking, as well as connections to employers.

The City of Syracuse, CenterState CEO, Syracuse Educational Opportunity Center, OCM BOCES, and Onondaga Community College are working with local employers on the efforts, CenterState CEO said in a news release.

“The manufacturing industry is becoming more agile because of technology and with programs like these we are investing in a workforce that can do the same,” Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said. “Syracuse Surge enables us to compete and design a better ecosystem that connects employers to a trainable workforce and in a way that creates opportunity for all.”

Syracuse Surge includes a series of investments in tech infrastructure that will position Syracuse as “one of America’s ‘smartest’ cities and a global leader in the New Economy,” the city contends.

Surge was initiated by the City of Syracuse, which, in collaboration with Onondaga County and leading local institutions, is working to “ensure inclusive growth in the New Economy” through talent and workforce development, minority, women, veteran and disabled owned (XBE) business development and community engagement.

These programs are funded by the JP Morgan Chase Foundation and the American Rescue Plan Act, which is administered by the City of Syracuse and “in line” with Walsh’s commitment to invest in jobs and economic recovery.

All participants will receive a stipend while in the program, along with access to a “Surge Career Navigator” to help guide them into their chosen career. This support includes help with résumé writing, interviewing skills and best practices, and how to successfully manage the application process.

About the training programs, career opportunities

The Electrical Mechanical Technician program is a three-week, middle-skilled paid training experience co-led by Onondaga Community College and OCM BOCES.

It includes on-the-job training with area employers including Giovanni Foods and Anheuser-Busch.

The program’s focus is to prepare skilled workers for careers in mechanical or electrical maintenance, general factory maintenance and servicing large industrial equipment. Candidates should have a pre-assessed knowledge of electrical/mechanical basics.

Entry-level wages for these careers range from about $18-$25 an hour.

The Surge Advanced Manufacturing program is a two-week introductory paid training program at SUNY EOC.

It will prepare people for careers in clean high-tech advanced manufacturing. The program covers blueprint reading, industrial math, technical skills, professional development and networking with employers including NexGen Power Systems, Chimera Integrations, and ICM Controls.

Entry-level wages range from $14-$18 per hour with overtime “frequently available.” These careers “typically have significant opportunities for advancement.”

Individuals interested in these programs can apply online by Dec. 6. More information is also available on Facebook @syrsurgeworkforce. It is free to apply and participate. Rosters for the training programs will be announced Dec. 20. All applicants must attend an information session and finalists will be selected for interviews.

Successful applicants must reside in the city of Syracuse; be at least 18-years old; be authorized to work in the U.S.; be able to read, write and speak English; have their general-education diploma or high-school diploma; and be able to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

Participants are expected to attend the full training program.