Workforce Development Specialist

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."