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Preparing Tomorrow's Skilled Workforce

SUNY's Apprenticeship Initiative

SUNY Apprenticeship Programs are at the forefront of addressing the growing and changing workforce needs in the state of New York. We engage employers of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations across a diverse array of sectors, to create well-paying Registered Apprenticeships within high-demand occupational fields.

A Registered Apprenticeship Program is a structured training opportunity where individuals, called apprentices, receive hands-on experience, referred to as 'On-the-Job Training' and educational instruction, referred to as ‘Related Instruction’ to learn a particular occupation, trade, or skill. These programs are overseen by the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) to ensure they meet quality standards and provide valuable training. For employers in New York, Registered Apprenticeship programs offer a reliable method to train new talent tailored to specific needs, fostering a skilled workforce, and boosting productivity. Apprentices benefit from gaining practical skills, recognized certifications, and opportunities for career advancement and higher wages. Ultimately, Registered Apprenticeship programs in New York State promote mutual investment between employers and employees, leading to a more skilled and prosperous workforce statewide.

SUNY has funding to pay for Registered Apprentices’ tuition!

See a non-exhaustive list of Registered Apprenticeship occupations SUNY colleges have already supported. Colleges will work with employers to provide training for new areas as well.

From the SUNY Blog:
See how students learn to earn in a successful pre-apprenticeship program

Pushing apprenticeship growth across New York State

SUNY's Apprenticeship Business Developers focus on supporting the growth of apprenticeship programs across sectors particularly in business, technology, education, healthcare, agriculture and advanced manufacturing. Their roles blend business development with apprenticeship program promotion, ensuring all key stakeholders from NYSDOL to SUNY institutions are at the table with the goal to develop an apprenticeship program that breeds a successful pipeline for tomorrow's workforce.

See what your Apprenticeship Business Developer says about growing apprenticeships in your region:

Angelina Sanfillipo headshot
Angelina Sanfillipo
Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Central New York Regions
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As the Apprenticeship Business Developer for the North Country and Central NY regions, I have the privilege of working across 12 rural counties. These areas face unique challenges, especially when it comes to accessing resources and opportunities. That's where I come in, acting as a connector between employers, the NYSDOL, and SUNY schools to help businesses navigate apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships are all about collaboration, and I'm grateful to help facilitate that. Whether it's guiding businesses through program details or linking them with the right training providers, my role is to ease the process. It's a rewarding job, and I'm excited to be a part of something that helps both businesses and individuals thrive in this region.

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Kelly Navarro headshot
Kelly Navarro
Western New York, Southern Tier, and Finger Lakes Regions
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Registered Apprenticeships are a powerful tool to bridge the skills gap and provide an alternate path to middle-class. Registered Apprenticeships are high demand occupations and are still considered higher education. Employers can really set themselves apart from their competition when looking to hire the best workers if they offer Registered Apprenticeships as part of their brand.

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Jeff Lowther headshot
Jeff Lowther
Capital Region, Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island Regions
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As an Apprenticeship Business Developer, I help grow Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across the Mid-Hudson Valley, NYC, Long Island, and parts of the Southern Tier by connecting businesses with SUNY colleges and other partners. My goal is to bridge the gap between education and workforce needs, making it easier for employers to develop skilled talent through Registered Apprenticeship programs. By working closely with industry leaders and educators, I help create career pathways that benefit businesses and communities alike. Now, I'm also getting out to high schools to talk to seniors about Registered Apprenticeship as a solid career alternative, highlighting how SUNY supports these opportunities through education and training partnerships.

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SUNY's Apprenticeship Funding Partners

Apprenticeship Programs at SUNY is made possible through appropriations in the New York State budget, with a portion administered in conjunction with the Empire State Development Office of Strategic Workforce Development.

This funding allows us to support employers with Registered Apprenticeship programs, as well as assist current and future Registered Apprentices. Funds can be accessed by SUNY colleges to grow apprenticeship programs in their region.

Employers are using apprenticeships to build a skilled workforce, increase productivity, and prepare for the future.

Reach out to learn how SUNY can help.

SUNY Office of Workforce Development and Upward Mobility
apprenticeship@suny.edu