For Immediate Release July 16, 2024

Utica, NY – The Workforce Development Board, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida Counties’ Regional Apprenticeship Development & Readiness (RADAR) grant program is pleased to announce recently approved Apprenticeship programs concomitant with the U.S. Department of Labor’s efforts to expand and modernize Registered Apprenticeship by increasing the number of programs and apprentices, diversifying the industries that use Registered Apprenticeship and improving the access to Registered Apprenticeship Programs for underrepresented and underserved communities. These individuals receive career guidance, assessment and training in a chosen field, such as manufacturing, IT, human services or the trades at no cost to potential employers.

RADAR Program Manager Sommer Edwards says, “We are thrilled to share our active involvement in facilitating the launch of 17 new registered apprenticeship programs for businesses in our area. Our excitement stems from the profound impact these programs will have on fostering skill development, enhancing career opportunities, and bolstering our local economy. We are committed to supporting businesses every step of the way as they embark on this journey, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and resources to create meaningful apprenticeship experiences. Together, we look forward to building a robust network of skilled professionals who will contribute to the growth and success of our community.”

According to the Department of Labor, employers who utilize apprentices report higher productivity, higher retention rates, and a substantial return on investment.

Sitrin Health Care Center Vice President Foundation & Communications Marc DePerno says, “The Sitrin Health Care Center is excited to be recently approved as a New York State Registered Apprenticeship Program in Building Maintenance Mechanics. The apprenticeship program provides a unique opportunity to enhance workforce development and creates a learning environment that breeds success. Upon approval, we immediately identified two apprentice candidates who are currently completing the enrollment process.”

State Wide Autos Co-owner Andrew Bennett says, “With today’s ever-changing automotive industry, we are appreciative of the opportunity for our company to participate in the NYS Department of Labor Apprenticeship Training Program and also for the support we receive from the Workforce Development Board.  We recently registered our first employee, JC, in the Automotive Service Technician trade. All the program staff we are working with are very helpful and professional and we would encourage other companies to explore this beneficial opportunity for both their company and employees.”

Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL) Executive Vice President of Corporate Resources Amy Dewan says, “Each apprenticeship job posting has received interested candidates, and two candidates have recently been hired for the two Human Resources Associate positions.  One Human Resources Associate is working with employee benefits and the other is working with hiring direct care workers.  The apprenticeships provide opportunities for individuals to apply for positions that they are interested in without having the work experience or education that may be necessary if they were not apprentices.  It has allowed the two apprentices hired in RCIL’s Human Resources department to learn about Human Resources and begin assisting with benefits and hiring job responsibilities.”

Apprenticeship programs help employers:

• Recruit and develop a highly-skilled workforce that helps grow their business.

• Improve productivity, profitability, and an employer’s bottom line.

• Create flexible training options that ensure workers develop the right skills.

• Minimize liability costs through appropriate training of workers.

• Receive tax credits and employee tuition benefits in participating states.

• Increase retention of workers, during and following the apprenticeship.

The Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison, Oneida Counties, Inc. (WDB HMO) serves as a leader for workforce development programs and services, and as a regional partner, creating impactful strategies to meet the region’s immediate and long-term workforce needs and economic development priorities.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of hosting an apprenticeship or starting an apprenticeship program, please contact RADAR Program Director Sommer Edwards at 315.207.6951, ext. 133 or

This grant program operates in Onondaga, Cortland, Oneida, Madison, Chenango, Herkimer, Otsego, Delaware, Fulton, Montgomery, and Schoharie.

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The RADAR grant project is 100% funded by a United States Department of Labor - Employment and Training Administration’s (ETA) award of $2,999,993.  Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.