CORNING, N.Y. -- SUNY Corning Community College (SUNY CCC) has been awarded a $2.88 million Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) grant from the Department of Labor. SUNY CCC’s project, "Strengthening Career Pathways in Healthcare and Advanced Manufacturing," is designed to expand high-demand career pathways and enhance academic support systems for students in the region.
Grant funds will directly support new instructional positions, specialized student success coaching, and state-of-the-art laboratory technology to ensure students receive hands-on, career-aligned training in two of the region’s highest-demand fields.
Key Initiatives Supported by the Award Include:
New Healthcare Program and Health Sciences Student Support
Two full-time faculty positions will help create a new Surgical Technology AAS program, and a dedicated Health Sciences student success coach will help support students in Health Studies, Nursing, Addiction Studies, and the new Surgical Tech program. The grant also includes advanced medical equipment for the Surgical Technology Skills Lab.
Advanced Manufacturing Support and Equipment
A dedicated student success coach will help support students in the Machine Tool, Mechatronics, Mechanical Tech., and Electrical Tech. programs to degree completion and into regional jobs. The grant also includes new CNC turning centers for the Machine Tool Lab.
Math College-Readiness
The College will collaborate with regional schools and employers to help prepare students for college-level math skills. The grant includes funding for a Math Boot Camp to help students build or relearn the math skills needed for advanced manufacturing and health sciences programs.
Career Services and Work-Based Learning
A SIP Career Pathways Project Director and a new Work-Based Learning Coordinator will expand SUNY CCC’s services, assisting students with career exploration and planning and connecting students with regional employers through work-based learning experiences.
"This grant allows SUNY Corning Community College to directly address critical workforce needs in our community while opening new doors for our students," said Dr. Terence L. Finley, President of SUNY Corning Community College. "By expanding our Surgical Technology and Advanced Manufacturing capabilities, we are ensuring our students receive industry-leading training that leads directly to high-demand, local careers."
Through these expanded resources, SUNY Corning Community College continues its commitment to driving regional economic growth and providing accessible, innovative educational opportunities.