Nine Syracuse City School District students celebrated the completion of the first Bridge to Manufacturing (B2M) Learning Community summer program during a graduation ceremony at Onondaga Community College on August 13. The six-week program was designed to help create a pathway from high school to college and, ultimately, to high-demand careers in the region’s growing advanced manufacturing industry.
Created in partnership with Hillside Work-Scholarship Connection and funded through CenterState CEO, the program provided students with foundational math instruction from OCC faculty while introducing them to workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, professionalism, and time management. Students also participated in financial literacy training with SECNY Federal Credit Union, explored STEM career pathways, and learned about college expectations and resources.
Students who successfully completed the program received a Certificate of Completion, a laptop, and a $1,000 stipend based on full attendance. The program encourages students to build on their summer experience by continuing their education in college, and preparing for careers that will play an important role in Central New York’s economic future.
