National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), observed annually in November, shines a spotlight on the transformative power of Registered Apprenticeships (RA) in shaping the workforce of the future. At NY CREATES, we proudly joined the nationwide celebration, showcasing our commitment to cultivating pathways into rewarding careers in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries. In collaboration with the Center for Economic Growth (CEG), National Institute for Innovation and Career Advancement (NiiCA), and Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC), NY CREATES hosted and participated in several impactful events throughout this notable week.
National Apprenticeship Week Events Highlights
- Monday, November 18: National Apprenticeship Week Kick-Off Event
The week began with an energizing Coffee Connection hosted by the Center for Economic Growth. Our own NY CREATES Education and Workforce Outreach Development Manager, Capri O’Hara, participated in a panel discussion and networked with community leaders, industry professionals, and apprenticeship advocates to discuss the importance of RAs in fostering a skilled workforce.
- Tuesday, November 19: Lunch and Learn with NY CREATES, NiiCA, HVCC, and CEG with D1 Team Monthly Check-in Meeting
NY CREATES hosted a meet and greet opportunity during our monthly check-in meeting with our D1 team cleanroom operators (CRO). This collaborative event featured CRO apprentices and managers, highlighting the essential roles they play in the RA ecosystem. Together with NiiCA, CEG, and HVCC, we celebrated the commitment of our apprentices and the managers who mentor them, symbolizing the strength of our partnerships.
- Thursday, November 21: Lunch and Learn with NY CREATES, NiiCA, HVCC, and CEG with D2 Team Monthly Check-In Meeting
We hosted another meet and greet opportunity during our monthly check-in meeting with our D2 team cleanroom operators. This meeting brought NY CREATES, NiiCA, HVCC, CEG, and CRO teams together to discuss ongoing progress and share insights from our RA initiatives. These meetings reinforce our collective efforts to support and scale workforce development programs.
- Friday, November 22: Capital Region BOCES and NiiCA Roundtable Discussion
The week concluded with a dynamic roundtable event, hosted by Capital Region BOCES, featuring Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY) who led an insightful discussion alongside industry leaders, educational institutions, and workforce development organizations. They discussed how Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) create pathways to high-demand careers in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors. Our own NY CREATES Chief Human Resources Officer, Will Bronner, joined this roundtable event, highlighting our Vet S.T.E.P. and recently established Growing Apprenticeships in Nanotechnology and Semiconductors(GAINS) apprenticeship programs.
Read more about the roundtable event here: Congressman Paul Tonko Joins National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ and Industry Leaders for National Apprenticeship Week Roundtable to Strengthen New York’s Semiconductor Talent Pipeline.
The Transformative Impact of Registered Apprenticeships
Registered Apprenticeships offer a proven model for connecting individuals with in-demand careers while equipping employers with a skilled workforce. At NY CREATES, we are deeply committed to expanding these opportunities within the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors. By partnering with organizations like CEG, NiiCA, and HVCC, we are driving innovation, fostering career growth, and building a resilient talent pipeline that supports the future of American manufacturing.
As we reflect on this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, we extend our gratitude to the apprentices, mentors, and partners who make a more inclusive future in advanced manufacturing and technology possible.
