By Blake Jackson
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $40 million in new annual workforce development funding from the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to be invested over the next four years to build the skilled workforce needed to support advanced nuclear energy in Upstate New York. The funding, approved by the NYPA Board of Trustees, aligns with the Governor’s June directive for NYPA to develop at least one gigawatt of advanced nuclear power in the region.
In addition, the Power Authority approved $4 million in grants to universities and organizations that will expand training programs for high-demand careers in artificial intelligence, electromechanical trades, and advanced power systems to meet the growing needs of the renewable energy sector.
“New York is leading the clean energy revolution, and NYPA is powering that progress with bold investments in workforce development,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in the advanced nuclear workforce and expanding access to affordable, hands-on training in AI and advanced energy systems, we're preparing New Yorkers for the high-quality, high-demand jobs of tomorrow and ensuring every community can share in the benefits of a cleaner, more equitable energy future.”
Starting next year, NYPA will partner with workforce development providers such as technical high schools, community colleges, universities, labor unions, and other organizations to deploy the $40 million over four years. The initiative will support technical training, retraining, coursework, and apprenticeship programs designed to prepare workers for careers in advanced nuclear energy.
“New York's clean-energy transition only works if it comes with real career opportunities for the people who live in our communities," NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said. "Building on the success of our annual investment of up to $25 million for clean energy training to support the renewable energy sector, the Power Authority will add up to $40 million over four years to develop and retrain the workforce necessary to support advanced nuclear power, providing more opportunities for New Yorkers to pursue careers in this high-demand industry.”
The $4 million in additional workforce awards stems from a broader commitment of up to $25 million annually, established in the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget. Since 2024, NYPA has obligated more than $41 million to clean energy training efforts, supporting over 1,700 trainees and more than 30 workforce organizations statewide.
The newly approved grants will support programs at institutions including the Healthy Home Academy, SUNY Buffalo, The Green Launchpad, Genesee Valley BOCES, SUNY Stony Brook, and SUNY Binghamton, expanding hands-on learning, technical training, and industry partnerships across New York.
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Categories: New York, Energy, Government & Policy