The Peru Gazette

Albany, March 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $15 million has been awarded to 13 workforce development projects across nine regions through Empire State Development’s Office of Strategic Workforce Development. These grants will support the training of more than 5,700 New Yorkers through collaboration between training providers and more than 40 employer partners in high demand fields such as construction and advanced manufacturing. Through nine rounds of funding, more than $83 million has been awarded to 91 projects through the Office to support training for over 20,000 New Yorkers.

Locally: 

• Clinton Community College – North Country – $260,799 P4P Operating Grant: Funding will support the expansion of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing’s (IAM) three-week Welding Academy to offer additional training opportunities and wraparound services, including stipends and transportation and childcare assistance. IAM has been providing welding training since 2022 with 100 percent completion and job placement rates and waitlists for each cohort. This project will double the number of yearly cohorts served, providing trained and job-ready workers for the North Country’s network of more than 50 manufacturers.

“Reshaping New York’s approach to workforce training has been a pillar of my economic development strategy — and we’re seeing the results,” Governor Hochul said. “By working with employers in target industries, more New Yorkers are learning the skills needed for high-demand jobs, while receiving the support they need to promote greater success. These projects represent an investment in New Yorkers and the future of our state’s economy.”