Workforce Development

United Way is committed to strengthening long-term economic stability by investing in community partners that expand access to education, training, and career opportunities for adults and youth across the Capital Region. These investments help build workforce skills, support academic success, and create pathways to employment—especially for households that live below the ALICE threshold.

Offshore Wind Career Pathway Program

In partnership with NYSERDA and Capital Region BOCES. This tuition-free training opportunity helped prepare adults ages 18 and older for careers in the growing offshore wind and renewable energy sectors. Participants completed 300–500 hours of hands-on instruction in the offshore wind business and wind technology tailored to their selected trade (Welding, Electrical, Construction).

From 2023-2025, the program served 222 students. Training included industry-specific competencies such as renewable energy operations, wind turbine data collection and analysis, and pathways toward advanced offshore wind certifications. Participants who successfully completed the program also earned their OSHA 10-hour Safety Certification, helping strengthen readiness for employment in a rapidly evolving field.