MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, celebrated recent graduates of its Advance 2 Apprenticeship® and Real Life Rosies® direct-entry pre-apprenticeship programs with a ceremony for the Onondaga Community College cohort, along with milestone events in Rochester and Binghamton in partnership with the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association and the Binghamton Chamber of Commerce. These events highlight the programs’ expanding impact across New York State. These events highlight the programs’ expanding impact across New York State.

The celebrations honored program graduates and recognized employer partners who demonstrated their support through company tours, interviews, and employment opportunities. Together, the events underscore the success of MACNY’s workforce development efforts to strengthen the advanced manufacturing talent pipeline and expand access to in-demand careers.

To date, MACNY’s pre-apprenticeship programs have supported more than 300 participants, achieving a 75% completion rate and a 71% employment rate. Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies prepare participants for careers in advanced manufacturing through hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials, providing a direct-entry pathway into rewarding manufacturing roles.

“The program graduates should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished,” said Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY. “Each of them represents the power of collaboration between industry, education, and community partners. Through Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies, we’re opening doors to high-demand manufacturing careers while helping employers build the skilled workforce they need to compete and grow here in New York State.”

Building on this success, MACNY has expanded both programs, now operating in Syracuse, Rochester, the Mohawk Valley, Oswego, Albany, and Binghamton. This expansion is supported by strong regional partnerships, including the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA), Center for Economic Growth (CEG), and the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce, along with a statewide network of employer and educational provider partners.

“SUNY is proud to support MACNY’s Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies programs, which demonstrate the power of strong partnerships between education and industry. These programs connect New Yorkers to in-demand skills and quality careers while helping employers build the workforce they need to compete and grow across the state. This statewide expansion reflects SUNY’s commitment to aligning education with workforce needs and expanding access for individuals and families,” said Chris White, Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development and Upward Mobility, SUNY.

MACNY’s pre-apprenticeship programs are strengthened through national partnerships with BlueForge Alliance – Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) and the NSF Energy Storage Engine in Upstate New York, as well as support from Empire State Development and the New York State Department of Labor. MACNY also extends its gratitude to Senator Christopher Ryan and Assemblymember Pamela Hunter for their leadership and support in securing funding that allows these programs to grow and serve more New Yorkers.

“CEG is proud to partner with MACNY to expand the Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies programs across the Capital Region. These initiatives deliver real value for employers by strengthening the advanced manufacturing talent pipeline, while also connecting job seekers to high‑quality, life‑changing career opportunities. Together, we are supporting the long‑term competitiveness of our regional manufacturers and helping more New Yorkers access rewarding careers in a growing industry,” shared Heather McDaniel, Chief Economic Development Officer of Center for Economic Growth.

“The Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with MACNY on programs like Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies, which are creating real pathways into high-demand careers for our region’s workforce. These initiatives not only connect individuals to opportunity but also help employers address critical talent needs. The continued expansion of these programs across New York State demonstrates what’s possible when industry, education, and regional partners work together to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce,” said Stacey Duncan, CEO, Leadership Alliance, Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce.

“The Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association is proud to expand Real Life Rosies and Advance 2 Apprenticeship to Monroe County and the City of Rochester,” said Rich Turner, RTMA Executive Director & Director of Workforce Development. “By partnering with MACNY, Empire State Development, SUNY, and BOCES, we’re creating a pipeline for our employers through underrepresented and underserved communities. Participants receive state-of-the-art training and supportive services that are vital to ensure a successful pathway to a great career and potential New York State Registered Apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing.”

Looking ahead, MACNY will build on the success of Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies with additional programs launching in early 2026, expanding these proven pathways into additional regions and increasing access to advanced manufacturing training and in-demand careers across the state.

For more information about Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies, visit www.nysapprenticeship.org.