In the ever-evolving landscape of workforce development, the need for accessible and targeted training has never been more critical. As a civil engineer by trade and someone deeply invested in our community progress, I’m thrilled to share a groundbreaking initiative that brings learning directly to the industry’s doorstep.

SUNY Schenectady’s state-of-the-art mobile training trailers are designed to revolutionize the way we approach career-focused learning. Traditional off-site training often incurs significant costs and downtime, which is why this is taking a giant leap forward by bringing the classroom to you.

A Mobile Classroom Tailored to Your Needs

These mobile labs are fully equipped classrooms, each strategically designed to cater to the specific needs of industries, including advanced manufacturing and healthcare. With a focus on technical, professional, and interpersonal competency skills enhancements, the mobile labs aim to streamline onboarding, upskilling, promotion, and retention of your workforce.

Key Features of the Mobile Labs:

• Cutting-Edge Classroom Space:
  • Equipped with laptops for interactive learning.
  • Large-screen training monitors both inside and outside the lab for immersive sessions.
• Advanced Manufacturing Lab:
  • Features Motion AI Collaborative Robot, 3D printer, SolidWorks, and interactive learning lab panels.
  • Offers workshops in customer service, supply chain and logistics, cyber security awareness, and leadership in business.
• Healthcare Lab:
  • Includes equipment and modules for phlebotomy and EKG.
  • Provides training in essential healthcare skills, trauma-informed care, safety and ergonomics for healthcare workers, anatomy and physiology, and medical coding and billing.
• Career-Based Introduction for K-12 and Community Education:
  • Inspiring the next generation’s healthcare and manufacturing workforce.
  • Generating awareness among high school and middle school students.
  • Supporting community members to understand pathways to great careers in healthcare and manufacturing.

Empowering Our Community

As someone deeply rooted in the community, I am particularly proud of the positive impact these mobile labs can have. By inspiring young minds, generating awareness, and supporting community members, we are laying the groundwork for a robust and skilled workforce.

Additionally, as Chair of the New York State Assembly Rural Resources, I bring a unique perspective on the diverse needs of our communities, especially those in rural areas grappling with workforce shortages. Initiatives like SUNY Schenectady’s mobile training trailers represent a promising step forward in addressing this challenge, providing rural communities with opportunities for skill development and economic growth.

Rural areas in Schenectady County and across the state often face barriers to accessing traditional training opportunities, hindering economic development. The mobile labs’ approach of bringing tailored education directly to industries aligns with the vision of connecting rural areas with new opportunities, potentially bridging the gap in workforce skills and contributing to the overall vitality of our rural communities.

Partnerships and collaborative efforts are integral to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural regions. The success of Schenectady, which thrives due to effective partnerships, solving problems collectively, and setting high standards, serves as a model for other communities. By working together, we can create initiatives that set the standard for inclusive and accessible education.

In addition to addressing workforce shortages, these mobile labs play a crucial role in promoting hands-on learning experiences. Learning outside the classroom is a key component of skill development, and the interactive nature of the mobile labs fosters practical knowledge acquisition. This aligns with the broader goal of furthering education and expanding the workforce by providing individuals with the skills needed for success in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

By leveraging innovative approaches like mobile training, I am committed to supporting initiatives that empower our communities. Through collaborative efforts, forward-thinking initiatives, and a commitment to learning, we can build a future where every community has the tools to succeed. For further information or to schedule training at your location, please reach out to the SUNY Schenectady Workforce Development and Community Education office at 518-595-1101, Ext 3.

Together, let’s shape a future where learning knows no bounds.