Partners for Education & Business, Inc.

Partners for Education & Business, Inc. (PEB) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and the K-16 arm of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) Workforce Development Team. We believe workforce development begins well before high school graduation, and we are committed to closing the gap between education and industry. Our team accomplishes this through engaging local employers across industry sectors in work-based learning programming for schools through facility tours, job shadows, internships, professionalism workshops and guest speakers. We also collaborate with partners to facilitate larger events and initiatives to foster an interest in the STEM career pathways in our community.

LET’S WORK TOGETHER

EDUCATOR

EDUCATORS


Connect your students to industry.

We take pride in connecting our school partners and local educators with professional development opportunities and resources for students. Our team recognizes the logistical and systemic barriers. Let us be the intermediary in finding creative ways to engage with local companies and infusing skills for the future workplace into your classroom.

BUSINESSES

EMPLOYERS


Engage your future workforce.

When tomorrow’s workforce is equipped to pursue their potential, we cultivate a stronger community and thriving industries. Let us help you explore the possibilities of connecting with students and preparing them to be first in line with your company to keep talent here in Central New York.

STUDENT

STUDENTS


Explore local career pathways.

Our team knows the importance of finding the right fit. We want you to feel empowered to find a career that aligns with your passion, not just a job. Through connections to work-based learning (job shadowing, internships, etc.), scholarship opportunities, and career exploration resources, we can help you make a more informed decision about your future.

MEET OUR TEAM

Taylor Hodge
Taylor Hodge Wanted to be a teacher

Taylor Hodge

Director, Partners for Education & Business, Inc.

[email protected]
315-474-4201 ext. 24

As someone who enjoys collaboration, I am energized by the partnerships our team has the unique privilege of building with K-12 schools, higher education institutions, community organizations, and businesses. These partnerships are foundational to creating opportunities for STEM career pathway exploration for students of all ages and their families. I am passionate about helping those around me grow. I am also committed to opening doors for members of our community who are underrepresented in manufacturing and technology careers.

I was hired at MACNY in January 2021 as a Workforce Development Specialist. In October of the same year, I was promoted to Associate Director. I also spent time away from the organization as the Assistant Director & Lock 4 Program Manager for ERIE21 at Le Moyne College, where I regularly convened stakeholders responsible for delivering training and provided success coaching to adult learners. I returned to MACNY as the Director of Partners for Education & Business. I also have experience as the Program Manager for Adult & Continuing Education at Cazenovia College.

I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Inclusive Elementary Education from Cazenovia College and a Master of Science degree in Education (Curriculum & Instruction) from SUNY Potsdam.

Fun fact about me: I love traveling and experiencing new places with my husband and son.

Emily Langan
Emily Langan Wanted to be an archaeologist

Emily Langan

Manager, Partners for Education & Business, Inc.

[email protected]
315-474-4201 ext. 12

I am passionate about working with students because no two career paths are the same, nor should they be.  The beauty of career exploration programs is that it allows students to discover the vast number of options we have right here in Central New York.

Previously, I served as the community engagement coordinator at Syracuse University, engaging with administration, professors, staff, and staff involved in community-engaged work.  I also worked at the United Way of CNY in the community impact and resource development departments.  I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Nazareth College and my Master of Public Administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.

Fun fact about me: I love running and racing.  I completed my first marathon in October 2021, and I love competing in triathlons, Spartan races, and any other road race around!

Amy Stewart
Amy Stewart Wanted to be an author

Amy Stewart

Workforce Development Specialist

[email protected]
315-474-4201 ext. 26

After pursuing jobs that were not the right fit for me, I became passionate about helping others find a career that supports their goals and well-being. I also love developing opportunities to connect the classroom with industry, so we have stronger communities in Central New York.

Before PEB, I worked at Onondaga Community College in Career Services for four years. I supported students with all phases of career development, specifically within career and technical education programs. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Master of Science in Student Affairs Counseling from Syracuse University, as well as an Associate of Arts in Humanities from OCC.

Fun fact about me:  I love making greeting cards with word puns. I find puns otterly hilarious!

Nira Irby

Nira Irby

Workforce Development Specialist

[email protected]
315-474-4201 ext. 56
Murjan Abdi
Murjan Abdi Wanted to be a teacher

Murjan Abdi

Workforce Development Assistant

[email protected]
315-474-4201 ext. 62

I am passionate about working with students and ensuring that all students have an opportunity to pursue a STEM education and explore careers in STEM industries. I am a part of the New American community in Central New York, I speak multiple languages, and I am a proud graduate of the Syracuse City School District’s CTE Program in Computer Science. I am excited about the opportunity to represent my community and to advance exposure and participation in the STEM industry by historically underrepresented community members. Working for an organization that directly supports CTE programs is very awesome! Seeing young people thrive and engaged in learning is the best feeling ever.

I earned my Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from Onondaga Community College and will be pursuing my bachelor’s degree within the next few years.

Fun fact about me: I love spending time with family and mentoring siblings and community members. I love connecting with people on social media – click here to reach out to me on LinkedIn.