Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced $3.6 million to support education and job-training programs that help low-income workers find employment in sectors with significant demand for skilled labor. Made available through the Career Pathways Program, this funding furthers efforts to provide participants with a clear and reliable course of action for acquiring new technical skills, securing opportunities to earn higher wages over time and progressing in their careers.

“By giving workers a boost in the job market and ensuring that Empire State businesses have access to our world-class labor force, we are growing the economy while creating new opportunities for New Yorkers,” Governor Cuomo said. “This funding supports programs that empower hard-working men and women to further their careers in growing industries, and unlocks the potential for growth in some of our most vibrant sectors of business. I am pleased to be announcing this funding today, and I look forward to seeing it benefit communities around the state for years to come.”

More than $3.6 million has been awarded by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) to 14 community-based organizations around the state to operate Career Pathways Programs.

The Career Pathways Programs are organized as a series of steps that lead participants toward job placement and increased earnings opportunities. By providing industry-recognized credentials, certificates and/or licenses when appropriate, the Career Pathways Programs provide proof of experience that makes workers attractive to potential employers.

The industry sectors are identified locally and include those that need skilled workers and that are vital to the economic health of the region.

“Career Pathways links basic education to occupational training, combined with integrated support services, enabling individuals to advance over time to higher-wage jobs,” said OTDA Commissioner Kristin M. Proud. “This approach often leads to higher wages and benefits.”

Individuals eligible for the program include unemployed young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 and individuals receiving public assistance. Targeted sectors include health care, construction, manufacturing, hospitality and business services.

The following organizations received funding:

Congressman Charles Rangel said, “I thank Governor Cuomo for his commitment to providing much-needed resources and job opportunities for New Yorkers, and applaud him for recognizing the value of great initiatives such as the Career Pathways Program. This boost in funding for organizations in my congressional district is a smart investment of our State’s economic future, as it will undoubtedly help many talented individuals to contribute back to the community.”

Congresswoman Louise Slaughter said, “Rochester’s economy relies on high-tech and innovative companies that have a growing need for skilled workers with extensive training. These funds will ensure that we are preparing local workers for the jobs of tomorrow and helping to provide opportunities for those looking to advance their careers.”

Congresswoman Nita Lowey said, “Programs like Career Pathways are critical to making sure workers in the Lower Hudson Valley have the skills and technical expertise necessary to fill jobs in high-demand sectors. As the Ranking Member on the House Appropriations Committee, I have fought for these important funds and will continue to make sure we invest in our workforce.”

Congressman José E. Serrano said, “This important funding will help Bronx residents to gain new skills and create new job opportunities for themselves. This is a significant investment in the Bronx, and I want to congratulate both SOBRO and the Highbridge Community Life Center on receiving these grants. Both of these organizations are doing important work in the Bronx, and this funding will only enhance their capabilities. I also want to commend Governor Cuomo for his work on these issues, and for ensuring the Bronx can benefit from this important program.”

Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney said, “Training America’s workers to meet the demands of future job growth is the best way to ensure we have the skilled workforce that we will need in order to compete in the global economy. Programs like Career Pathways provide a great service in preparing New Yorkers for their next career opportunities in sectors vital to the economy of the region. I’m glad our state is making this critical investment.”

Congresswoman Nydia M. Velazquez said, “These programs help New Yorkers obtain skills and training enabling them to secure well-paying jobs and advance their careers. I’m pleased to see the federal and state governments invest in these initiatives.”

Congressman Brian Higgins said, “An education in the skills needed to compete in a global economy is one of the most important tools we can give our workers. Job and workforce training programs, like these, will go a long way toward ensuring that these workers are prepared to take advantage of all opportunities available to them and have a successful future.”

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke said, “I want to commend Governor Cuomo on his support for Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow, which will allow workers in Brooklyn who want to develop their skills to participate in the economy of the Twenty-First Century. Unemployment remains a serious problem in many parts of Brooklyn. The program will contribute to successful pairing of needed skills with available jobs.”

Congressman Paul Tonko said, “There are millions of unfilled jobs nationwide which have remained unfilled for years due to a gap in the skills required and those possessed by out of work Americans. The Albany Community Action Partnership has a strong track record of helping New Yorkers develop their skills to qualify for higher-wage jobs, and is well deserving of this support. I thank Governor Cuomo for his continued efforts to strengthen the middle-class in the Capital Region by focusing on jobs and what drives our economy in New York. In Congress I remain an ardent supporter of these programs as economic development continues to be the t        p concern in my conversations with constituents.”

Congressman Bill Owens said, “This funding for job training programs will help unemployed and low-wage workers learn the skills that companies in the area need urgently. These programs are a great way to help local employers and support workers who want to start new high-skill high-demand careers. I applaud the Governor on this announcement.”

Congressman Chris Gibson said, “Even as unemployment remains high across the country, several million jobs remain unfilled because employers are unable to find employees with the necessary qualifications. Education and job training programs are an important component of efforts to get Americans back to work and grow our economy.”

Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney said, “With many of my neighbors in the Hudson Valley struggling to find good paying jobs, this investment will spur economic growth by supporting education and job training to connect our neighbors with new skills and careers in expanding industries.”