The Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association’s Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program marked its seventh annual “Signing Day” on Thursday at Monroe One BOCES’ Eastern Monroe Career Center in Fairport.
The event recognized students in the school’s advanced manufacturing and engineering program who are beginning paid, on-the-job cooperative work experiences with local advanced manufacturing companies.
Organizers say the program is designed to connect students directly with employers while they are still in school, giving them hands-on experience and a pathway into high-demand careers.
RTMA Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator Keri Martin said Eastern Monroe Career Center has been a key partner since the program’s launch.
“EMCC is a proud partner of the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program from day one, and we look forward to connecting these students to paid co-ops at advanced manufacturing companies in our region,” Martin said.
The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program was created in 2018 by RTMA in partnership with Monroe Community College. Monroe One BOCES is among the original charter schools participating in the program.
Since its start, the program has connected more than 825 students with nearly 150 businesses across the Rochester and Finger Lakes region. Students have also earned credit for more than 750 college courses at no cost through the program’s first five years.
The program is supported by several organizations, including the RG&E Foundation and the Workforce Development Institute.
RTMA officials say similar “Signing Day” ceremonies are being held at other career and technical education schools throughout the region. Job shadowing opportunities are also being arranged for students who are not enrolled in CTE programs.
More information about the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program is available through RTMA.
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