The Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) recently celebrated milestones, through its partnership with the Manufacturing Intermediary Apprenticeship Program (MIAP), throughout New York State. The RTMA has the largest group sponsorship for advanced manufacturing apprenticeships in New York State.
The RTMA established the program in June 2018 and now sponsors 15 advanced manufacturing trades at more than two dozen advanced manufacturing companies across the nine-county greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region. Under an agreement with the State Department of Labor, the RTMA is allowed to sponsor with companies under its partnership – which removes a significant burden for local businesses. The RTMA also secures federal, state and grant funding which benefits both apprenticeships and their respective companies.
“In a competitive market, an apprenticeship program becomes a valuable tool in recruiting and retaining talent for local advanced manufacturing companies,” said RTMA Executive Director Bob Coyne. “Apprenticeships combine on-the-job experience with related instruction that best prepares our businesses’ workforces for years to come.”
Last month, the RTMA surpassed 160 apprenticeship sign-ups at their signatory companies. The RTMA also recently graduated its 30th Journey Worker from the NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program. Graduates have come from companies located in the city of Rochester and Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Wayne and Ontario counties.
“Manufacturing companies across the region buy into the NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program because they see the value,” added Rich Turner, RTMA’s Director of Workforce Development. “Apprentices are given a clear pathway to become a New York State Journey Worker in their respective trade – which is the equivalent of a college degree in manufacturing. Apprenticeships are higher education.”
Almost any advanced manufacturing company is eligible for the RTMA’s regional sponsorship of the NYS Apprenticeship Program. For more information, or to schedule an on-site visit, call or virtual meeting, you can visit here or contact the RTMA at [email protected] or (585) 510-6557.
