Fall 2026
Workforce Development Specialist Pre-Apprentice
Manufacturers Association of Central New York
11-50 employees
Advocates, trains, and connects regional manufacturers
Compensation Overview
$30.05/hr
Clinton, NY, USA
In Person
Regular regional travel is required, including occasional activities outside standard business hours.
Bachelor's
 Training |
|---|
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- Goal-oriented with a proven solution-focused approach.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for networking, outreach, public speaking, and program facilitation.
- Effective organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to professionally promote program benefits to employers, participants, and partners.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines effectively.
- High school diploma or equivalent, or a preferred bachelor's degree in workforce development, education, business, communications, human services, public administration, or a related field.
- At least six months of experience working with employers, students, job seekers, community partners, education providers, or workforce development programs.
- Familiarity with customer relationship management systems, learning management systems, Smartsheet, data dashboards, or other reporting tools.
- Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel regionally for recruitment, program delivery, partner meetings, employer engagement, graduations, and community outreach.
- Ability to travel regularly for meetings, events, outreach, and program activities in the community.
- Ability to participate in occasional activities outside standard business hours as needed.
- Successful completion of a background check.
- Recruit, screen, interview, and support participants for pre-apprenticeship programs.
- Coordinate with education partners, workforce development partners, community organizations, and employers to support successful program delivery.
- Provide career preparation support, including resume development, interview preparation, workplace readiness, and job search assistance.
- Support participant retention and completion by identifying barriers, connecting participants to resources, and maintaining regular communication throughout the program.
- Assist with participant placement into employment, Registered Apprenticeship pathways, or other appropriate next-step opportunities.
- Serve as a liaison between participants, businesses, educators, and community partners to ensure clear communication and alignment of expectations.
- Support special projects, pilot programs, new regional initiatives, and program expansion efforts as assigned.
- Build and maintain relationships with employers, educators, workforce partners, and community organizations to promote MTI's pre-apprenticeship programs and broader workforce development initiatives.
- Conduct outreach to employers to identify hiring needs, skill gaps, and opportunities for participant placement.
- Collaborate with employers to support presentations, facility tours, interviews, hiring events, and other engagement opportunities.
- Represent MTI at job fairs, community events, partner meetings, advisory committees, graduations, and other program-related events.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of participant activity, employer engagement, partner communication, program outcomes, and required grant data.
- Enter and update information in customer relationship management systems, learning management systems, spreadsheets, and other program tracking tools.
- Work collaboratively with the pre-apprenticeship team and other MTI departments.
- Contribute to a positive, solutions-oriented team culture focused on accountability, service, participant success, and continuous improvement.
- Prepare or contribute to program updates, participant communications, reports, articles, success stories, and partner-facing documents.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Experience with grant-funded programs or grant-related documentation.
- Bilingual or multilingual communication skills.
MACNY brings together manufacturers in Central Upstate New York to offer advocacy, human resources services, training, purchasing solutions, and networking to its 330-plus member companies. Members access these programs through the association, which negotiates group buying, provides HR and training resources, and hosts events while shaping policies that affect local manufacturers. Its regional focus, 100-year history, and the one-membership package that combines advocacy, procurement, training, and networking help MACNY stand out from broader or national groups. The goal is to help area manufacturers compete, grow, and sustain their businesses by supplying practical tools, policy backing, and a strong local network.
Company Size
11-50
Company Stage
Grant
Total Funding
$6M
Headquarters
Syracuse, New York
Founded
1913
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- June 2026 Mohawk Valley office expands local access to advocacy and talent services.
- MACNY’s $6 million federal apprenticeship grant funds 800-plus New Yorkers through NY-RAMP.
- January 2026 hires in policy and workforce deepen execution across New York State.
What critics are saying
- MTI launched in 2026 with roughly $3 million; funding gaps threaten scale.
- Labor demand dependence on Micron Clay ties MACNY’s narrative to one mega-project.
- If employer placements lag, 2026 expansion can expose weak completion and retention economics.
What makes Manufacturers Association of Central New York unique
- MACNY’s 2026 MTI consolidates apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, and career exploration statewide.
- Its Advanced Manufacturing pipeline spans Syracuse, Rochester, Mohawk Valley, Albany, Binghamton, and Oswego.
- MACNY pairs employer advocacy with workforce training, unlike typical trade associations.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
401(k) Company Match
Hybrid Work Options
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account
Tuition Reimbursement
Flexible Spending Account
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
↑ 11%1 year growth
↑ 11%2 year growth
↑ 11%Anheuser-Busch invests $13 million in Baldwinsville, NY Brewery, expands local manufacturing skills training. Aug 20, 2026, 16:00 ET LEADING AMERICAN MANUFACTURER CONTINUES TO DELIVER ON $600 MILLION COMMITMENT, FUELING PRODUCTION OF MICHELOB ULTRA AND ADDING CUTWATER PRODUCTION CAPABILITIES BALDWINSVILLE, N.Y., Aug. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Today, Anheuser-Busch (NYSE: BUD), a leading American manufacturer and maker of Michelob ULTRA, Busch Light, Budweiser, Bud Light, Cutwater Spirits and NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, announced a $13 million investment in its Baldwinsville, New York facility. This investment will help Anheuser-Busch, the #1 fastest-growing supplier in total alcohol,[1] meet growing consumer demand for Michelob ULTRA and Cutwater, the top 2 fastest-growing alcohol brands in the country,[2] and expand local manufacturing skills training. This latest investment is part of Anheuser-Busch's ongoing Brewing Futures initiative through which the company is investing $600 million in its U.S. operations across 2025 and 2026. The initiative builds on Anheuser-Busch's commitment to investing in people, breweries and communities by creating and sustaining manufacturing jobs, building the manufacturing workforce for the future, and strengthening manufacturing career opportunities for veterans. Brendan Whitworth, CEO, Anheuser-Busch said: "Anheuser-Busch is committed to supporting the communities where our employees live and work. Investments in facilities like our Baldwinsville Brewery help us strengthen our operations while creating and sustaining jobs and continuing to drive economic growth throughout Central New York State. We're proud to continue investing in American manufacturing and in the hardworking New Yorkers who help to produce America's most iconic beer and spirits brands every day." This new $13 million investment in Anheuser-Busch's Baldwinsville Brewery will help increase production of Michelob ULTRA, the #1 top-selling and fastest-growing beer in America,[3] as well as upgrade can and bottle lines. It will also add new production capabilities for Cutwater to help meet rapidly growing demand for the #1 spirits-based cocktail brand in the U.S.[4] As part of this investment, Anheuser-Busch will also open a new technical skills training center inside the Baldwinsville Brewery, one of 15 that the company is opening nationwide, to upskill employees across mechanical, electrical, digital, and operational areas. This new center builds on the Baldwinsville Brewery's already strong technical skills training programs. This year, the Brewery is celebrating the first two graduates from its Maintenance Technician Development Program - developed in partnership with New York State, The Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) and the Teamsters - who went through hands-on training to advance from packaging operators to electricians. Governor Kathy Hochul said: "New York has a proud manufacturing heritage that continues to fuel economic opportunity across the state. Anheuser-Busch's latest investment in its Baldwinsville Brewery, alongside the apprenticeship opportunities developed in partnership with Anheuser-Busch, New York State, MACNY, and the Teamsters, helps to create new pathways to long-term careers right here in New York and a bright future for the Central New York region." Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) said: "Anheuser-Busch's $13 million investment in its Baldwinsville Brewery will expand local production while creating new opportunities for workers to build their skills and advance into good-paying manufacturing careers. The new technical training center, combined with the company's successful partnership with New York State, MACNY, and the Teamsters, is exactly the kind of workforce development I've consistently championed because it's a proven model that benefits workers, businesses, and our entire regional economy. I commend Anheuser-Busch for continuing to invest in its Baldwinsville workforce and the future of American manufacturing." Anheuser-Busch has proudly called New York State home for over 40 years, investing more than $100 million in its Baldwinsville Brewery since 2021, and remains committed to being a key economic driver in New York State. The Baldwinsville Brewery serves as a hub of innovation, and the hundreds of New Yorkers employed at this facility produce more than 50 Anheuser-Busch brands. ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. For more than 165 years as a leading American manufacturer, we have delivered a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. As the nation's top brewer, one of the fastest growing spirits companies, and an insurgent force in energy drinks, we drive economic prosperity nationwide through investments in our people, facilities, and communities. We are the only alcohol company that invests in the U.S. at this scale. We make the nation's most iconic beers, ready-to-drink spirits and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA - America's #1 top-selling and fastest-growing beer - Busch Light, Budweiser, Bud Light, Stella Artois, Cutwater Spirits, NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, BeatBox, industry-leading craft beers and non-alcohol beers like Michelob ULTRA Zero. We are guided by our commitment to the communities we call home and to the 65,000 hardworking Americans who bring our products to life. That's who we are. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and Instagram. | ____________________________ | | [1] | Circana TUS MULC+ w/e 7/19/26 | | [2] | Circana, $ Sales, YTD 07.19.26, TUS HB GEO | | [3] | Circana TUS MULC+ Volume Sales w/e 7/19/26 | | [4] | Circana, $ Sales, YTD 07.19.26, TUS HB GEO | SOURCE Anheuser-Busch
MACNY celebrates Advance 2 Apprenticeship(R) and Real Life Rosies(R) direct entry pre-apprenticeship program graduations, marking statewide impact and expansion. MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, celebrated recent graduates of its Advance 2 Apprenticeship(R) and Real Life Rosies(R) direct-entry pre-apprenticeship programs with a ceremony for the Onondaga Community College cohort, along with milestone events in Rochester and Binghamton in partnership with the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association and the Binghamton Chamber of Commerce. These events highlight the programs' expanding impact across New York State. These events highlight the programs' expanding impact across New York State. The celebrations honored program graduates and recognized employer partners who demonstrated their support through company tours, interviews, and employment opportunities. Together, the events underscore the success of MACNY's workforce development efforts to strengthen the advanced manufacturing talent pipeline and expand access to in-demand careers. To date, MACNY's pre-apprenticeship programs have supported more than 300 participants, achieving a 75% completion rate and a 71% employment rate. Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies prepare participants for careers in advanced manufacturing through hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials, providing a direct-entry pathway into rewarding manufacturing roles. "The program graduates should be incredibly proud of what they've accomplished," said Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY. "Each of them represents the power of collaboration between industry, education, and community partners. Through Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies, we're opening doors to high-demand manufacturing careers while helping employers build the skilled workforce they need to compete and grow here in New York State." Building on this success, MACNY has expanded both programs, now operating in Syracuse, Rochester, the Mohawk Valley, Oswego, Albany, and Binghamton. This expansion is supported by strong regional partnerships, including the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA), Center for Economic Growth (CEG), and the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce, along with a statewide network of employer and educational provider partners. "SUNY is proud to support MACNY's Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies programs, which demonstrate the power of strong partnerships between education and industry. These programs connect New Yorkers to in-demand skills and quality careers while helping employers build the workforce they need to compete and grow across the state. This statewide expansion reflects SUNY's commitment to aligning education with workforce needs and expanding access for individuals and families," said Chris White, Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development and Upward Mobility, SUNY. MACNY's pre-apprenticeship programs are strengthened through national partnerships with BlueForge Alliance - Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) and the NSF Energy Storage Engine in Upstate New York, as well as support from Empire State Development and the New York State Department of Labor. MACNY also extends its gratitude to Senator Christopher Ryan and Assemblymember Pamela Hunter for their leadership and support in securing funding that allows these programs to grow and serve more New Yorkers. "CEG is proud to partner with MACNY to expand the Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies programs across the Capital Region. These initiatives deliver real value for employers by strengthening the advanced manufacturing talent pipeline, while also connecting job seekers to high-quality, life-changing career opportunities. Together, we are supporting the long-term competitiveness of our regional manufacturers and helping more New Yorkers access rewarding careers in a growing industry," shared Heather McDaniel, Chief Economic Development Officer of Center for Economic Growth. "The Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with MACNY on programs like Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies, which are creating real pathways into high-demand careers for our region's workforce. These initiatives not only connect individuals to opportunity but also help employers address critical talent needs. The continued expansion of these programs across New York State demonstrates what's possible when industry, education, and regional partners work together to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce," said Stacey Duncan, CEO, Leadership Alliance, Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce. "The Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association is proud to expand Real Life Rosies and Advance 2 Apprenticeship to Monroe County and the City of Rochester," said Rich Turner, RTMA Executive Director & Director of Workforce Development. "By partnering with MACNY, Empire State Development, SUNY, and BOCES, we're creating a pipeline for our employers through underrepresented and underserved communities. Participants receive state-of-the-art training and supportive services that are vital to ensure a successful pathway to a great career and potential New York State Registered Apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing." Looking ahead, MACNY will build on the success of Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies with additional programs launching in early 2026, expanding these proven pathways into additional regions and increasing access to advanced manufacturing training and in-demand careers across the state.
Six new team members join MACNY to strengthen Workforce Development, Public Policy, and government engagement statewide. We're expanding our team with six new staff members who will broaden the organization's expertise across human resources, workforce development, government relations, and public policy. These valued additions will help further our mission to support manufacturers, expand career pathways, foster strategic partnerships, and engage elected officials and community stakeholders throughout New York State and beyond. Bill Brower brings decades of leadership experience in higher education, philanthropy, and community development to MACNY as Director of Public Policy and Community Impact. In this role, he will work closely with manufacturers, elected officials, educators, and community partners to shape public policy, build high-impact collaborations, and strengthen workforce pathways. He has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for Hamilton College, SUNY Geneseo, and Le Moyne College, and has designed and scaled initiatives that connect historically underserved populations to career pathways, technology training, and education. His work has included engagement with employers, legislators, and public agencies to prepare local talent for emerging industries and major investments, including the region's growing advanced manufacturing and semiconductor ecosystem. With a strategic, relationship-driven approach, Brower will help expand MACNY's influence, support manufacturers' talent needs, and advance inclusive, long-term economic growth across New York State. Courtney Kless joins MACNY as a Government Relations Specialist, acting as a key conduit between the organization, its members, and government officials at the local, state, and federal levels. She helps convey MACNY's policy priorities, advance advocacy initiatives, and engage stakeholders on issues affecting manufacturers. With a background in editorial leadership and higher education, Courtney brings skills in strategic communications, content development, and relationship-building. She leverages this experience to support legislative initiatives, cultivate meaningful connections with elected officials and community partners, and ensure the voice of New York manufacturers is effectively represented across all levels of government. As a Workforce Development Specialist, Adrianna Patzer supports the growth of MACNY's Registered Apprenticeship programs in the Central New York region. She works with businesses, educators, and community partners to promote apprenticeship opportunities, provide technical guidance, and address workforce challenges in emerging and high-demand industries. Adrianna supports employer outreach, engages with stakeholders, and contributes to grant-funded initiatives, while also helping to implement programs and guide strategic planning. She brings hands-on experience in employment services and job coaching, paired with a passionate focus on helping individuals pursue long-term, sustainable career paths. Meriel Stokoe supports MACNY's Direct Entry pre-apprenticeship programs as a Workforce Development Specialist, with a focus on building connections between education and industry. She works closely with employers, educators, and community organizations to expand apprenticeship-aligned career pathways and strengthen employer participation. Meriel assists in efforts related to participant recruitment, program coordination, employer engagement, and program design. Her work centers on creating inclusive, hands-on learning experiences that prepare individuals for in-demand careers while helping manufacturers develop a skilled talent pipeline. Sarah Snyder also joins MACNY as a Workforce Development Specialist, bringing a background in public health, safety, and government operations to support MACNY's Direct Entry pre-apprenticeship programming. She applies her experience in project management, stakeholder coordination, and reporting to support program implementation and participant enrollment. Sarah works with external partners to address workforce challenges and connect individuals to manufacturing career opportunities, helping ensure programs run effectively and meet both participant and employer needs. Bringing more than 15 years of human resources leadership experience across the manufacturing, healthcare, and insurance sectors, Colette Emmons joins the team as HR Manager. In this role, she oversees both strategic and operational human resources functions, including recruiting and onboarding, employee development, performance management, compensation, benefits, and compliance. She is recognized for cultivating positive workplace cultures, enhancing employee engagement, and supporting organizational growth and long-term success. "We're thrilled to welcome this group of talented professionals to MACNY," said Randy Wolken, President & CEO. "Each of them brings unique expertise that will strengthen our ability to support manufacturers, expand career pathways, and build meaningful partnerships across New York State. Their contributions will help us continue to advocate effectively for our members, grow our workforce initiatives, and make a lasting impact on both the manufacturing community and the broader region."
Nick Bruno joins MACNY as Director of Strategic Initiatives for Workforce Development, where he will drive partnerships and growth in workforce development programs.
Christa joins MACNY's Talent Development team to support the Real Life Rosies(R) and Advance 2 Apprenticeship(R) pre-apprenticeship programs, which prepare participants for careers in advanced manufacturing and other high-demand fields.