$31.5 million awarded for New York State Pathways in Technology Early College High School program

12 awardees to use funding to prepare students for high-skill technology, health care, finance, manufacturing jobs; program combines high school, college and career training, focused on academically and economically at-risk students 

√ Students to receive ongoing mentorship by professionals in chosen career sector

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $31.5 million in funding for the New York State Pathways in Technology program that will prepare thousands of New York students for high-skill jobs of the future in technology, manufacturing, health care and finance.

Her team said, “This investment funds regional partnerships that respond to the greatest need for enhanced access to post-secondary opportunities primarily for academically and economically at-risk students, and works to strengthen the pipeline between local talent and industries with a favorable job outlook.” Each partnership will include K-12, higher education, and business/employer partners.

"Early workforce development and career mentorship allows students to discover their passions and talents, develop their skills and build relationships with mentors who can guide them on their career journey and prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow," Hochul said. "This program will help ensure thousands of New York students can reach their full potential and gives employers access to a large pool of talent that can bring their enterprises to the next level."

A press release stated, “The New York State Pathways in Technology Early College High School (NYS P-TECH) program incorporates an integrated program between four and six years in duration that combines high school, college and career training. The program is a public-private partnership designed to provide students with mentorship and opportunities to learn through worksite visits, speakers and internships.

“Students are eligible to receive an associate degree in a high-tech field and are first in line for a job with participating business partners following completion of the program. Through these programs of study in high-wage, high-skill and high-demand career areas, students will be able to earn transcript college credit toward an associate degree. Career pathways begin in grade nine and include workplace learning and high school and college coursework. The pathway provides a seamless sequence of study extending through two years of postsecondary career and technical education, which culminates in an associate degree.”

Local awardees include:

√ Niagara Falls School District – $2,308,983 in partnership with SUNY Niagara County Community College, Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, and M&T Bank

√ North Tonawanda School District – $2,313,738 in partnership with SUNY Niagara County Community College and Ingram Micro

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. said, "The state's P-TECH program provides students with opportunities to apply their learning in a field of interest. Upon successful completion of the program, students will have earned college credit and engaged in career exploration. They are prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education in high-demand and high-paying science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. This funding will further support 21st century learning and beyond by strengthening the partnerships with high schools, colleges, and career development opportunities."

New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, "Strong partnerships and collaboration between our schools, colleges and employers are essential to enhancing access to post-secondary opportunities for students in regions with the greatest need. The P-TECH program supports our efforts to advance educational equity by providing students with the opportunity to graduate high school with the skills and knowledge they need for careers in STEM and to earn college credits at no cost. Dual enrollment programs like P-Tech and Early College High Schools provide students with a high-quality education, experience in post-secondary learning, career exploration, and the opportunity to earn college credit."

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, "P-TECH brings together K-12, higher education, and employer partners to create economic opportunity for first-generation college hopefuls and other underrepresented students across New York state. During my campus visits at P-TECH's 28 SUNY college partners, I was able to see firsthand the impact of preparing students for degrees and jobs in advanced manufacturing, health care, cybersecurity, and IT – fields that lead to well paying, in-demand careers.”

SUNY board of trustees member Stan Litow, "Data shows that those entering the workforce with a college degree earn more than a million dollars in lifetime earnings compared to those with only a high school diploma. P-TECH success is clear. It began in New York state, offering a clear pathway from school, to college, and to career. Based on its documented success, it has spread across New York and 14 states and 28 countries, offering tens of thousands of students the skills and education needed for career success.”