News
November 21, 2024Congressman Tonko to Join National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ and Semiconductor Industry Leaders for Workforce Roundtable
On November 22, as part of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY) will join the National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ (NIICA) and Capital Region BOCES, for a roundtable discussion, “Semiconductors for Tomorrow: Strengthening New York’s Talent Pipeline Through Registered Apprenticeships.” This event will bring together key stakeholders from government, education, and industry to explore how Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) are creating pathways to high-demand careers and strengthening New York’s semiconductor and advanced manufacturing workforce.
The event spotlighted New York’s emerging leadership in the semiconductor industry, building on recent announcements such as NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex being named the CHIPS for America EUV Accelerator, a National Semiconductor Technology Center facility that will act as the U.S. headquarters for research into extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. This selection positions New York as a global hub for advanced semiconductor innovation, further emphasizing the critical need for a skilled workforce to support these advancements in the region.
Albany is at the forefront of semiconductor workforce innovation. In 2023, NIICA launched the nation’s first Career Opportunity Hub in Albany, a transformative initiative connecting job seekers with tailored employment and training opportunities in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. Earlier this year, NIICA further expanded its efforts in the region with the announcement of New York’s first Gateway Apprenticeship Program. This program bridges high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) with Registered Apprenticeships, providing a seamless pathway for students to enter high-demand semiconductor careers.
The roundtable will feature insights from leaders representing key organizations driving workforce development and semiconductor innovation, including NYCREATES, the Center for Economic Growth, GlobalFoundries, SUNY, and Indium. Their collective expertise spans education, industry, and economic development, making this discussion a unique opportunity to explore how collaborative efforts can address workforce challenges and expand career opportunities in manufacturing.
Event Highlights
- Engaging Roundtable Discussion with Congressman Tonko and Industry Leaders
The conversation will delve into workforce challenges, explore the role of RAs and other pathways, and highlight partnerships that support a robust semiconductor workforce. - Spotlight on Workforce Innovation
The event will underscore how New York is leveraging federal investments and state resources to address workforce demands, enhance manufacturing competitiveness, and create equitable opportunities in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing careers. - National Semiconductor Leadership
With Albany recently selected as the national epicenter for EUV lithography research, the event will highlight how workforce development initiatives align with cutting-edge semiconductor technology advancements and secure New York’s position as a leader in the industry.
“As New York emerges as a global hub for semiconductor innovation, building a sustainable and skilled workforce has never been more important,” said Mike Russo, President and CEO of NIICA. “This roundtable underscores our commitment to creating inclusive pathways into the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries. By collaborating with educational institutions, industry leaders, and government partners, we are forging the workforce solutions necessary to meet the demands of this vital sector and empower individuals with high-value career opportunities.”
“Investments in workforce development are key to ensuring that our region and our nation remain leaders in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries,” said Congressman Tonko. “Through initiatives like Registered Apprenticeships and collaborative efforts with local educational institutions and industry leaders, we’re creating opportunities for New Yorkers to thrive in cutting-edge careers. This roundtable serves as an important step in building a talent pipeline that supports both our economy and our communities.”
Media Participation:
- On-Site Attendance: Journalists are invited to attend the roundtable discussion in person at Capital Region BOCES, with dedicated space for media representatives.
- Virtual Attendance: The event will be live-streamed via NIICA’s YouTube channel. Access details will be provided upon request, and a replay will be available on YouTube post-event.
- Interview Opportunities: Congressman Paul Tonko, NIICA President & CEO Mike Russo, and other key participants will be available for interviews immediately following the event during a press gaggle.
- Visual and Broadcast Resources: NIICA can provide footage of the roundtable discussion and other visuals to support broadcast and digital coverage.
Event Details:
- Location: Capital Region BOCES, Dining Room, 900 Watervliet Shaker Rd, Albany, NY 12205
- Date: November 22, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM ET
To RSVP for in-person or virtual attendance, or to arrange interviews, please contact Stephanie Frederick, NIICA’s Outreach and Communication Manager, at sfrederick@niica.org.
