National Manufacturing Month Kick-Off at PGM

Manufacturing Day is an annual celebration of modern manufacturing practices that help to build our local, national, and global economies.  Each year, more than 1600 manufacturers open their doors to students and host STEM programs that encourage careers in manufacturing and engineering. 

On Friday October 2, 2020, PGM hosted a Kick-off for “Manufacturing Month” with an in-person press conference that showcased industry partners and representatives from the Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association, Monroe Community College, Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program, Monroe County, and the manufacturing sector. 

Key Speakers:

• Dr. Mike Hockenberger: President & CEO, PGM Corp
• Bill Pollock:  CEO & Founder, Optimation; Board President, RTMA
• County Executive Adam Bello, County of Monroe, NY
• Dr. Katherine Douglas, Interim President, Monroe Community College 
• Joe Rizzo, Manager of Economic Development, RG&E; sponsor of Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program
• Bob Coyne, Director of Workforce Development, RTMA
• Dale Pearce, Program Director, Monroe Community College’s Economic and Workforce Development and Career Technical Education VP Office

KEY MESSAGES:

Economic impact: Manufacturing accounts for 12.5% of our local economy and employees approximately
58,600 residents in the Greater Rochester area. There are more than 1500 manufacturers in our region.
(Source: NYS Department of Labor May 2018)

Training: The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program (FLYAP) is an unprecedented solution to our
region’s skilled trades shortage in advanced manufacturing. Using a multi-phased process, FLYAP connects
high school students with advanced manufacturers through Matching Day Events, interviews, job
shadowing and paid co-ops.

Collaboration: Working together to address the labor supply shortage for small and midsize
manufacturers, our local officials, business leaders, and educational partners are providing access to job
opportunities through critical training and ongoing recruitment events.