Governor Hochul Invests $200 Million in ON-RAMP to Build New York’s Manufacturing Future

The ON-RAMP program represents a vital investment in both the workforce and the economy of Upstate New York

Posted

New York State continues to solidify its position as a global hub for advanced manufacturing with the launch of the One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships (ON-RAMP) program.

As a $200 million investment, ON-RAMP aims to address the increasing demand for skilled workers while promoting equitable access to high-quality training across Upstate New York. The initiative will create a network of four workforce development centers strategically located to drive economic growth, including a flagship facility in Syracuse.

The Goal: A Bridge to High-Growth Industries

The ON-RAMP program seeks to connect diverse, skilled individuals with careers in rapidly expanding advanced manufacturing sectors. These centers will provide crucial academic support that has been proven to enhance the success of trainees in high-demand skill areas.

The program will equip workers with the tools they need to enter long-term, sustainable employment by fostering strong partnerships between employers, educational institutions, and local communities. Employers, in turn, can leverage the program to develop tailored training programs that align with their specific workforce needs.

An Economic Imperative

Upstate New York has become a magnet for semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries. From significant investments by Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed to the federal Tech Hub designations of cities like Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo, the region is experiencing unprecedented growth. Micron’s $100 billion investment alone is poised to create upwards of 50,000 new jobs, many of which will require the highly specialized skills that ON-RAMP centers are designed to provide.

However, while the demand for talent is at an all-time high, many communities remain underrepresented in these industries. The program aims to address this gap by creating accessible pathways for individuals from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to participate in the region’s manufacturing boom.

ON-RAMP’s Structure: Four Workforce Development Centers

The ON-RAMP program will fund the creation of four workforce development centers, including three selected through a competitive process. For the competitively awarded centers, ON-RAMP grant funding will cover three primary areas:

  • Planning grants to develop business plans for regional centers.
  • Operational expenses for curriculum development and trainee support services.
  • Capital investments for construction or expansion of training facilities.

This model ensures that each center is fully equipped to provide relevant, industry-aligned training that adapts to changing needs and technologies within the advanced manufacturing sector.

Key Principles Driving ON-RAMP

  • Commitment to Access and Equity: Centers will prioritize equitable access to training and education, especially for priority populations. This includes implementing plans to address barriers to entry, such as transportation and childcare.
  • Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with industry leaders is central to the ON-RAMP mission. Training programs will be developed with companies to reflect real-world demands, and ongoing industry participation will ensure these programs remain relevant.
  • Workforce Pipelines: The program will create robust pipelines from entry-level to mid-skill positions, offering participants diverse training options that align with their interests and industry needs.
  • Wraparound Support: To reduce barriers to success, participants will benefit from wraparound services, such as stipends during short-term training.
  • Data-Driven Approach: Performance metrics will be collected and analyzed to ensure that program goals are being met, allowing for continual improvement of the centers.

Eligibility and Funding

The ON-RAMP program will establish three additional workforce centers in the Capital Region: Finger Lakes, Mid-Hudson, Mohawk Valley, North Country, or Southern Tier regions. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, workforce development boards, chambers of commerce, community colleges, and other technical education providers.

Initial funding includes up to $300,000 for planning grants and up to $40 million for implementation, covering operational and capital costs. Each selected region will be required to demonstrate a 10% match for capital and operational funding during the planning phase and a 20% match during implementation.

Applications for the ON-RAMP program will be accepted until December 2, 2024. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a track record in workforce development, coalition building, and working with priority populations.

A Sustainable Future

One of ON-RAMP's core goals is to ensure the long-term sustainability of these workforce development centers. Each center is expected to become fully self-sustaining within five years of receiving implementation funding, ensuring their ongoing contribution to the regional economy without continued state support.

The program will foster partnerships between industry, education, and government, helping secure New York’s future as a leader in advanced manufacturing while promoting inclusive economic growth.

Environment + Energy Leader