Senator Young Secures $80,000 for “Dream It Do It” Program

ALBANY – To help young people build the skills they need to pursue good jobs and rewarding careers, Senator Catharine Young (R, C, I- 57th District) secured $80,000 in the 2018-2019 state budget for the Dream It Do It program in Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties.

Hi-tech manufacturing demands skilled workers trained to meet the needs of 21^st Century industries. Dream It Do It works with educators, manufacturers and business groups to address the skills gap. It guides students into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs.

“This is an investment in the education and opportunities for our young people and the economic growth and prosperity of our region,” Senator Young said. “Our region has a strong manufacturing history and Dream It Do It provides young people with programming that prepares them for a career, helping them learn the skills they need to meet the demands of employers.”

Economic experts forecast that by 2020, 17,000 manufacturing jobs will be available in Western New York. However, manufacturers say there is a shortage of skilled workers in the region who are ready to meet the demands of 21st Century high-tech manufacturing industries.

“To attract innovative manufacturers and businesses, we need a well-trained workforce. Workers with 21^st Century skills also enable existing employers to expand and adapt their operations in a community that already supports them,” Senator Young said. “An education in a STEM field provides someone with employment opportunities that allow them to build a life in the community where they grew up, near family and friends.”

Dream It Do It Western New York, is the regional division of the national Dream It Do It initiative started by the Manufacturing Institute.

Todd Tranum, President and CEO of Dream It Do It Western New York and Executive Director of the Manufacturers Association of the Southern Tier, said the funding will ensure workers have the skills they need to compete in today’s economy.

“Senator Young has been a champion and advocate for manufacturers in our region. She has long been a supporter of the Dream It Do It program’s mission to build a talent pipeline that supports manufacturers,” Mr. Tranum said. “Accessing a qualified workforce remains a priority challenge of manufacturers in the region. The manufacturing community is appreciative of the work Senator Young has done to secure financial support for the Dream It Do It program.”