Agenda
WHAT WE'LL COVER
NY Workforce Connect will host its second annual workforce-centric conference, where industry professionals – from the education, government, nonprofit and other sectors – will gather for a day of learning and networking. Our panels will dive deep into various topics and viewpoints from across the industry and are always evolving and changing based on the needs of the industry.
There will be time to ask questions and interact with the panelists. View the topics that will be highlighted during the event.
SCHEDULE FOR MAY 19 SUMMIT:
8:30-9:00 AM: Check-in / coffee and tradeshow
9:00-9:15 AM: Welcome remarks
9:15-9:35 AM: Keynote: Shaping the Future of New York’s Workforce, Together
9:35-9:45 AM: Transition time
9:45-10:45 AM: Track 1: Unlocking Workforce Potential Through Apprenticeship: A Dual Perspective from Employers and Apprentices | Track 2: The Business of Health: Scaling CNY’s Infrastructure and Workforce for the Micron Era
10:45-11:15 AM: Coffee break & networking
11:15 AM -12:15 PM: Track 1: Proving the Success of Workforce Programs with Verifiable Results | Track 2: Upskilling, Re-Skilling and Retention Strategies for Tomorrow’s Workforce
12:15-1:30 PM: Lunch, networking & tradeshow
1:30-2:30 PM: Track 1: Coordinating Multi Stream Funding for Sustainable Workforce Growth | Track 2: From Gamers to the Workforce: Building Central New York’s Tech Talent Pipeline
2:30-2:45 PM: Transition time
2:45-3:45 PM: Track 1: Scaling Success from Classroom to Career Path | Track 2: Expanding Talent Opportunities Through Fair Chance Hiring
3:45-4:00 PM: Transition time
4:00-4:45 PM: Fireside Chat: The Micron Effect: Building a Statewide Talent Ecosystem from the Ground Up
4:45-5:30 PM: Reception, networking & tradeshow
Sessions & topics
Shaping the Future of New York’s Workforce,
Together
The landscape of workforce development across Upstate and Central New York is shifting at an unprecedented pace. This isn't just a look at where we are—it’s a roadmap for where we’re going. Join us as we explore how "connecting the dots" between industry and education can accelerate our shared success and move the workforce space forward, together.
The Micron Effect: Building a Statewide Talent Ecosystem from the Ground Up
This session explores the strategic architecture behind the workforce for the largest memory manufacturing project in U.S. history. We will move beyond the headlines to discuss the "now" and the "next". Most importantly, we will share actionable insights on how Micron is building community trust and regional partnerships.
Unlocking Workforce Potential Through Apprenticeship:
A Dual Perspective
This dynamic panel brings together the voices of apprentices and sponsoring employers to showcase the real-world ROI of the "earn-while-you-learn" model across a variety of industries. Organizations can access structured instruction and critical tuition support—removing financial barriers for employers while opening doors to higher education for the workforce.
Scaling Success from Classroom to Career Path
While many agree on the importance of early career exploration, the real challenge lies in execution. This session moves beyond the "why" to provide a concrete blueprint for building sustainable talent pipelines from middle school through postsecondary employment.
Proving the Success of Workforce Programs with Verifiable Results
This session pulls back the curtain on why data is the critical thread woven through every phase of workforce development programming—from identifying the precise audiences that need your services to articulating the value that your programs offer. Discover how to leverage data to reach and engage underserved populations with precision.
Expanding Talent Opportunities Through Fair Chance Hiring
This session provides HR and workforce leaders with a definitive roadmap for integrating Justice Impacted Professionals into their talent pipeline while navigating the complexities of New York State "Fair Chance" laws. Walk away with the actionable tools and customized training strategies needed to turn compliance into a strategic talent advantage.
Upskilling, Re-Skilling and Retention Strategies for Tomorrow’s Workforce
As skill gaps widen and workforce turnover continues to challenge employers across Upstate New York, organizations are rethinking how they develop and retain talent. This panel explores how upskilling, reskilling, and retention can work together—through policy, employer practice, and education partnerships—to build stronger, more adaptable workforce pipelines.
The Business of Health: Scaling CNY’s Infrastructure and Workforce for the Micron Era
Join leadership from SUNY Upstate Medical University for a fireside chat, exploring how their $450 million expansion and innovations in autonomous logistics are building the essential foundation for the region's industrial growth. Learn how the "Business of Health" is evolving to secure the workforce pipeline and physical infrastructure needed to support 200K new neighbors.
Coordinating Multi Stream Funding for Sustainable Workforce Growth
Speakers will share a critical update on the new Workforce Pell Program and the strategic deployment of WIOA and state grant funds. Attendees will gain an actionable understanding of braided funding strategies—learning how to effectively stack and coordinate multiple financial streams to build sustainable high-impact training programs for CNY.
From Gamers to the Workforce: Building Central New York’s Tech Talent Pipeline
Hear how competitive gaming develops critical soft skills and technical aptitudes for advanced manufacturing and computer science. Featuring a cross-functional panel of educators, learn real-world implementation strategies and a clear framework to help you diversify your talent pool and scale STEM engagement across Central NY.
Have an idea for a future topic?
We're planning for future NY Workforce Connect events, from evening regional meetups across the state to our full-day conference. If you have an idea for a future talk-track or panel topic, please let us know by submitting a proposal!