Onondaga Community College (OCC), in partnership with the Manufacturers Alliance of New York (MACNY), celebrated a significant milestone as 20 students completed the Advance 2 Apprenticeship and Real Life Rosies pre-apprenticeship programs. The ceremony, which was held January 29 on the OCC campus, brought together more than 50 representatives from local community organizations, industry partners, and families to honor the graduates’ achievements.
This accomplishment represents far more than the completion of a course. It marks the beginning of promising careers in manufacturing for individuals who now move forward with industry-recognized credentials, hands-on experience, and renewed confidence.
“The pre-apprenticeship programs show what’s possible when industry and higher education align,” said Justin Pritchard, Dean of Instructional Services at OCC. “Graduates leave with skills, credentials, and the confidence to continue their education, knowing OCC is here whenever they are ready for their next step.”
For many students, the impact of the program extends beyond technical training. Graduate Donald Tarsia shared that the experience provided not only career skills, but also a pathway forward during a difficult chapter in his life. Transitioning from homelessness to meaningful employment, his journey reflects the transformative power of workforce development programs and the importance of continued investment in these opportunities.
Funded by Empire State Development and the NSF Energy Storage Engine in Upstate New York, and supported by the SUNY Future of Work Center in Central New York, the program ensures participants have access to both training and clear educational pathways at OCC. This integrated support strengthens the region’s talent pipeline while helping individuals build sustainable, long-term careers.
The pre-apprenticeship programs are designed to expand access to manufacturing careers by offering robust wraparound services that promote success inside and outside the classroom. Instruction emphasized hands-on learning to ensure students developed practical, job-ready skills. OCC instructors Colleen Stevens, Mara Metzgar, Bob Buttner, and Tequila Gregory led coursework spanning shop math, assembly, maintenance, machining, and quality inspection.
With support from employer partners including Belden, Regal Rexnord, TTM, and ICM Controls, the programs connect manufacturers with skilled, motivated talent. Graduates from both cohorts now enter the workforce prepared to contribute immediately and continue growing within high-demand industries.
