CORNING, N.Y. -- Dr. Tony Wohlers, Vice President of Academic Affairs at SUNY Corning Community College, participated in a national panel discussion in Washington, D.C., on October 21, 2026, highlighting innovative approaches to strengthening partnerships between community colleges and regional employers.
The panel, “Building Regional Capacity Through Industry Collaboration,” was part of New America and the National Science Foundation’s Accelerator for Community Colleges in the Innovation Economy. Dr. Wohlers joined national education leaders, including Celeste Carter, former NSF Advanced Technological Education Program Director, and Dr. Christine Martey-Ochola, Associate Vice President and Dean of STEM and Workforce at SUNY Broome Community College.
The discussion highlighted the collaboration between SUNY Corning and SUNY Broome to advance the Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) model, an innovative approach that moves beyond traditional advisory boards by engaging employers as active partners in identifying the knowledge, skills, and abilities students need for emerging careers.
“Community colleges are essential partners in regional economic development,” said Dr. Wohlers. “Through our collaboration with SUNY Broome and industry leaders, we are strengthening the connection between education and employment while ensuring our students are prepared for the workforce of tomorrow.”
Dr. Wohlers, also a participant in the American Association of Community Colleges' ATE Future Leaders Fellows Program, emphasized the importance of sustained industry engagement, faculty collaboration, and workforce-aligned curriculum development.
His participation reflects SUNY Corning’s growing national engagement in educational innovation and its commitment to advancing student success, strengthening regional workforce partnerships, and supporting economic development throughout the Southern Tier.