Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) announced the 2015-16 state budget includes funding for programs that support job-training, “middle-skills” education, advanced manufacturing and local economic development (A.3003).

“This year’s state budget invests in our local economy by preparing workers and students with the skills they need for good-paying jobs and stable careers, and helping local businesses thrive,” said Assemblyman Stirpe.

The 2015-16 state budget will provide a total of $1.15 million in new funding for job-growth and certification programs in Central New York. This funding includes $550,000 for CenterState CEO, a business organization and chamber of commerce based in Syracuse that facilitates regional growth and partnerships among local businesses. Specifically, this funding will be used to attract and recruit new businesses to Central New York, help existing businesses export their goods and services and assist the Regional Economic Development Council with planning and staffing needs.

"The New York state budget agreement provides critical investments for the Central New York community," said Robert Simpson, president of CenterState CEO, in Syracuse. "This proposed funding will advance key strategic and growing industries, while supporting efforts to create greater economic opportunity for our residents. Likewise, strategic investments in Global NY and in globally-capable infrastructure projects, such as our regional ports, will capitalize our existing regional global growth strategies to create even more opportunities for those doing business in or looking to expand into international markets, creating jobs in the process. I want to thank Assemblyman Al Stirpe and the rest of the Upstate delegation for their ongoing commitment to our work."

Additionally, $600,000 will be included in the state budget for an initiative spearheaded by Assemblyman Stirpe that provides job training and certification for students who are planning to enter advanced manufacturing and related fields. This funding focuses on closing the so-called “middle-skills gap” that exists when manufacturing positions require education beyond a high-school diploma but different from a traditional four-year degree. While state and federal programs provide assistance for traditional higher education programs, this year’s state budget provides much-needed support for “middle-skills” education.

“The jobs of tomorrow require specialized education and unique skills,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “But when it comes to fields like advanced manufacturing, these skills are not always provided by a traditional college education. Preparing workers and students for good-paying jobs in promising industries here in Central New York will strengthen our community, not just today but for years into the future.”