We’re proud to announce the promotion of three team members whose leadership and expertise continue to advance the organization’s mission and statewide impact. These individuals will play a pivotal role in advancing the Manufacturers Talent Institute (MTI), MACNY’s talent development engine dedicated to connecting talent, training, and industry through its continuum of career exploration, pre-apprenticeship, and Registered Apprenticeship programs. These promotions reflect MACNY’s commitment to developing exceptional internal talent and scaling innovative, people-focused workforce solutions that build a skilled workforce, create clear pathways to high-impact careers, strengthen manufacturing competitiveness, and drive economic growth across New York State and beyond.
With her demonstrated leadership in advancing workforce development initiatives, Colleen Blagg has been promoted to Director of Pre-Apprenticeship at MACNY. In her previous role, she played a key part in supporting and expanding pre-apprenticeship programming, helping connect students and job seekers with meaningful career pathways in manufacturing. In her new role, Colleen will oversee the strategy, development, and execution of MTI’s pre-apprenticeship programs, including Advance 2 Apprenticeship® and Real Life Rosies®, while strengthening partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations. She will also lead efforts to grow participant engagement, enhance program outcomes, and expand access to high-quality talent pipelines that support the region’s workforce needs.
With her strong commitment to advancing workforce solutions and supporting employer and participant success, Samantha Wessing has been promoted to Senior Workforce Development Specialist at MACNY. In her previous role, she worked with employers, education partners, and participants to strengthen workforce training initiatives and talent pipelines across the region. In this expanded role, Samantha will focus on serving the Mohawk Valley region, leading efforts to expand talent development and apprenticeship programming and deepen engagement with local partners. Her responsibilities will also include leading employer training initiatives on Registered Apprenticeship Programs and collaborating with key stakeholders to develop pathways for youth into Registered Apprenticeship opportunities.
With her strong expertise in grant management, financial oversight, and process improvement, Amanda Rice has been promoted to Director of Workforce Operations at MACNY. Since joining MACNY, she has been instrumental in managing state and federal grants, sourcing and administering new funding opportunities, and helping develop and implement key processes that strengthened reporting and coordination across departments. In her expanded role, Amanda will lead efforts to research, develop, and apply for new grant opportunities while collaborating closely with the Finance Team to optimize the use of grant funding. She will also oversee critical operational initiatives, including the development and maintenance of data and time tracking systems and other workforce development technologies that support program effectiveness and organizational growth.
“Colleen, Samantha, and Amanda each exemplify the dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit that drive MACNY’s mission forward. These well-deserved promotions reflect not only their individual accomplishments but also their growing impact on our talent development efforts and overall organizational success. As we continue to expand and strengthen our programs across the state, they will play a vital role in driving innovation, deepening partnerships, and delivering results that support the long-term growth and competitiveness of our regional workforce,” said Randy Wolken, President and CEO of MACNY, The Manufacturers Association.