Partnering Institutions and Agencies Announce Launch of Syracuse Surge Job Training Programs

Workforce Training programs part of Citywide strategy to prepare and place local residents with employers for in-demand jobs 

Partners from public, private and academic sectors work together to invest private, state, and federal dollars.

To learn more about the programs, and how to apply, visit: www.centerstateceo.com/SyracuseSurge

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, CenterState CEO, SUNY EOC, Le Moyne College, and other Syracuse Surge partners announced the launch of a series of training programs as part of an aligned technology workforce strategy to help fill in-demand jobs in the tech industry. The five programs announced will target a diverse workforce of up to 300 residents connecting them to training and jobs over the next year.

The Syracuse Surge strategy has resulted in an unprecedented series of investments from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors in tech infrastructure positioning Syracuse as one of America’s ‘smartest’ cities and a global leader in the New Economy. Syracuse Surge was initiated by Mayor Ben Walsh and the City of Syracuse which, in collaboration with Onondaga County and leading local institutions, is working to ensure inclusive growth in the city as connectivity and a STEM-related New Economy call for more skilled talent, workforce development, XBE business development and community engagement.

“The New Economy is already here and it’s tech-driven, internet-driven, and people-driven. Every partner in the Syracuse Surge ecosystem is acting on the opportunity to create the workforce of the future by investing in training programs and reframing opportunities to more inclusively build-up our workforce...and it’s working,” said Mayor Walsh. “Syracuse Surge is creating initiatives that offer city residents higher wages and careers that will last well into the future.” 

The training programs are being developed with local employers so that talent is trained for the jobs that are in demand. These programs are being funded through the investment of public and private funds from the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, Work Train funder collaborative, and JPMorgan Chase Foundation. Several of the training programs will offer participants stipends through investments made by the American Rescue Plan Act, administered by the City of Syracuse.

“We are excited to help lead this effort and engage local employers to recognize the key role they can play in this process,” said Aimee Durfee, director of Workforce Innovation at CenterState CEO. “Across the spectrum we are seeing job creators step up and actively take part in this process, championing workforce competitiveness and looking closely at how equity is central to their hiring practices.”

All the programs are providing participants with access to a Surge Career Navigator to help them navigate the pathway into their chosen career. This includes help with resume writing, interviewing skills, and how to successfully manage the application process.

“Le Moyne's distinctive ERIE21 program, which develops and strengthens those who enter the innovation economy today and in the future, is a vital component of the work being done through Syracuse Surge," said Le Moyne President Linda LeMura. "In particular, ERIE21's new certificate programs in computer programming, cybersecurity and web programming align with the long- and short-term goals of Syracuse Surge. Le Moyne is excited to partner on this effort with the City of Syracuse and CenterState CEO, with a goal of improving the region's technology infrastructure and skilled workforce." 

Information on all programs can be found at www.centerstateceo.com/SyracuseSurge.

Training Programs and Career Opportunities:

Surge Coding Apprenticeship: This is a paid experience that targets diverse talent to attract them into Syracuse’s tech sector. The program is for those interested in a career in software development and combines classroom training with self-paced learning and on the job experience. Funding for the program comes from JPMorgan Chase Foundation and the American Rescue Plan Act administered by the City of Syracuse. The program is a year-long depending on the employers, which include TCGplayer, Terakeet and Thales. Participants will receive four weeks of preparatory training before beginning an apprenticeship. The program will begin in February 2022.

Digital Customer Service: Hosted by SUNY EOC, this three week paid program includes training for digital/technical skills, including typing, dual screen usage, and industry specific software proficiency. Participants will be connected to industry experts to learn what it is like to work at a call center, and will have the opportunity to network with local employers. Entry-level wages range for these careers is $14 to $18 an hour with benefits.

Surge Advanced Manufacturing: Hosted by SUNY EOC, this two-week introductory paid training program will prepare people for careers in clean high-tech advanced manufacturing. The program covers blueprint reading, industrial math, technical skills, and professional development. Entry-level wages range from $14 to $18 an hour with overtime frequently available. These careers typically have significant opportunities for advancement.

Le Moyne College Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Fundamentals or Computer Programming: These industry-approved programs are each one year in duration, offer college credit, and will prepare participants for gainful employment in cybersecurity and computer programming careers. These programs were created for individuals who are looking to learn a new technical skill set to enhance employability, those who are looking to advance within a current organization or for those who are looking to start down a new career pathway. The program begins Tuesday, Jan. 18, in-person classes will be held at Le Moyne College. Full financial aid is available for those who demonstrate high financial need through a partnership between Le Moyne College and CenterState CEO. Seats are limited and priority will be given to applications received by Dec. 17, 2021.

Careers in Code, Hack Upstate: 24 weekcoding bootcamp that teaches computer programming to women and minorities to help combat poverty in Central NY. Students learn technical skills needed to obtain internships and entry level software development jobs with local employers.

About CenterState CEO

CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; dedicated to the success of its members and the prosperity of the region. We serve as an advocate and resource for smart business, catalyze and facilitate regional growth, and promote community prosperity through results-driven partnerships, planning and problem-solving. www.centerstateceo.com.

About the City of Syracuse 

The City of Syracuse is the fifth largest city in New York State. It is the epicenter of New York and is home to a metropolitan area population of more than 650,000 residents. Syracuse is  the flagship “Smart City” of New York known for its growing tech industry and rapidly growing Downtown business district. It has a rapidly growing employment market with proximity to major anchor institutions and features natural assets like the Onondaga Creekwalk, the Syracuse Inner Harbor, and is part of the Erie Canal Bike Trail across New York State. Its neighborhoods are among the most diverse in the state and are ranked among the best places to live by the U.S. News and World Reports. The City of Syracuse is a 4.5 hour drive to major cities across the Northeast and is the snow capital of the United States.

Image attached can be used in reporting. Credit is CenterState CEO. Caption: (L to R) Laiza Semidey, Syracuse Surge Workforce Manager, CenterState CEO; Hon. Ben Walsh, Mayor of the City of Syracuse; Aimee Durfee, Director of Workforce Innovation, CenterState  CEO; Tim Penix, Vice President of SUNY EOC; Amanda Miles, Director, Erie21;  Linda LeMura, President, Le Moyne College.