RTMA to Expand Programs through Funding Awarded by Empire State Development Office of Strategic Workforce Development

Rochester – The Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) through its partnership with the Manufacturers Intermediary Apprenticeship Program (MIAP) will receive workforce development funding from the Empire State Development of Office of Strategic Workforce Development to scale its Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship programs. The funding is a part of more than $15.5 million earmarked to support similar programs across the state.

The funding allows the RTMA to expand its Advance 2 Apprenticeship initiative and the Real Life Rosies program through its partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY). The programs were launched in 2023 as an effort to introduce underserved and underrepresented communities, women, and people with disabilities to careers in advanced manufacturing.

“The RTMA is proud to partner with MACNY and MIAP to utilize this strategic workforce funding to introduce more non-traditional workers to great careers and apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing,” said RTMA Executive Director Bob Coyne. “Real Life Rosies and Advance 2 Apprenticeship will bring more opportunities to women and marginalized populations while also providing wrap-around services like childcare and transportation. I thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their support of these programs.”

Earlier this year, the RTMA received funding from the New York State Department of Labor for its DEPA programs, which include pre-apprenticeship programs in Monroe and Genesee counties. The RTMA also partners with other grantees to provide free training programs for entry level manufacturers and tools and equipment for registered apprentices. For more information on the RTMA’s Workforce Development programs, call 585-510-6557 or email rturner@rtma.org.