Roundtable seeks solutions for manufacturing employers
TROY, N.Y. >> A recent roundtable discussion at Hudson Valley Community College brought together regional manufacturers and training partners with the hope of finding better ways to recruit new employees.
Forty representatives from private and public organizations were in attendance to discuss ways the college could help address the industry’s skills gaps and how to encourage more young people to enter the manufacturing fields.
Manufacturers said they are faced with an aging workforce and see trends that seemingly discourage more young people from entering the skilled trades, where salaries are often equal to those of graduates of four-year degree programs.
The event was hosted by the college’s Office of Workforce Development, which offers on-demand, sector-based skills training for the region’s workforce as well as business and industry clients.
Those represented at the roundtable spanned several industries, from printing and papermaking companies like Mohawk Paper and Quad Graphics to manufacturers like Pre-Tech Precision Machining, Greno Industries, and P1 Industries.
Others at the roundtable included service providers that are aimed at matching potential employees with manufacturers. Training programs that were discussed during the meeting included apprenticeship programs offered through the NYS Department of Labor and programs that hope to provide career pathways for those recently incarcerated.
Several other entities involved in economic development and workforce training, including the Center for Economic Growth, the Capital District Regional Planning Commission, the NY Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, and the Rensselaer County One Stop Center were also in attendance.