Senator Young Secures Funding for Successful Manufacturing and Job Training Programs

For Release: Immediate, June 16, 2014

$3 Million for the Workforce Development Institute Manufacturing Initiative

ALBANY - A $3 million grant secured by Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-Olean) will help workers develop the job skills they need to be successful through the Workforce Development Institute (WDI).

The grant will support the creation of manufacturing jobs and support training programs that help workers to either improve their position or transition into other jobs after layoffs. This funding is dedicated specifically to manufacturing initiatives and is in addition to $4 million received by the WDI for all of the important work they do to promote employment initiatives across the state.

“Ensuring that every New Yorker has access to job training services is essential to building a strong workforce and a prosperous economy. WDI has long been a tremendous partner in these goals. This funding will go a long way towards improving our manufacturing economy and providing hardworking New Yorkers with valuable opportunities,” said Senator Young.

WDI is a non-profit organization that works with businesses and unions across Upstate and Long Island to provide focused training for workers, workforce transition support, and alternative options to prevent jobs from moving out of New York. WDI is able to quickly work with companies in need of funding for training programs, equipment purchases, and other support services vital to growing and retaining employment.

Ed Murphy, WDI Executive Director, said, “I want to express our tremendous gratitude for all of the support given to manufacturers across New York State by Senator Young and the Senate. The confidence shown in New York manufacturing is deeply appreciated as we work to meet the needs of businesses striving to help our economy prosper.”

Mike LaBerta, WDI Western New York Regional Director, said, “The flexibility and effectiveness of our program is very well received by companies in Western New York. We have been able to work well and build strong relationships with businesses in need of assistance whose employees may not have a lot of other opportunities. Our goals and the strategic help we offer has always been supported by the Senate as we work with companies large and small. We wouldn’t be able to do it without Senator Young’s engagement and dedication.”

Bob Trouskie, WDI Rochester/Genesee Regional Director, said, “Since July 1, 2013, we have funded over 160 programs statewide to grow and retain employment. We work with employers to do whatever we can to preserve and create jobs in New York, and these funding resources will go a long way towards supporting manufacturing throughout the state.”

Doug Stock, President of the Dunkirk Central Labor Council for the WNY Area Labor Federation (AFL-CIO) said, “The rapid response training programs provided by WDI really help workers, and the employees who have participated have expressed their deep appreciation for the opportunities these invaluable trainings provided them.”

In total, this year’s State Budget provides $7 million for WDI’s valuable and successful work, with the $3 million portion secured by Senator Young dedicated specifically to supporting manufacturing through targeted grants, additional training, and logistical support to New York-based manufacturers. This funding will help to train workers for the in-demand jobs of today, and prepare tomorrow’s workforce for the jobs of the future.

“Through the Workforce Development Institute and similar initiatives, we are creating new job opportunities throughout the state and increasing the competitiveness of our local small businesses and manufacturers. This smart, strategic investment in job training is helping New Yorkers enhance their job skills and opening doors to new opportunities, financial security, and career success,” said Senator Young.

For more information on the great work of WDI, please visit: www.wdiny.org.

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