New York Power Authority and Northland Workforce Training Center Celebrate Launch of New Automotive Technician Program

For Immediate Release: 03/19/25 

Contact: media.inquiries@nypa.gov | (518) 860-9935 

  

New York Power Authority and Northland Workforce Training Center

Celebrate Launch of New Automotive Technician Program

 

New Program to Strengthen Pipeline of Skilled Automotive Service Technicians, Support Local Student Career Development

 

See Photos and Video of Automotive Lab

  

BUFFALO, N.Y.—The New York Power Authority (NYPA) and Northland Workforce Training Center today celebrated the launch of a new automotive technician program designed to narrow the skill gap for local labor trained in the auto industry. The program—developed in collaboration with SUNY Erie Community College—is currently supporting 30 students who will be awarded college credits and a certificate upon course completion.

 

“The launch of this innovative automotive technician program represents the Power Authority’s latest support for Northland Workforce Training Center as part of an ongoing partnership that that continues to strengthen Buffalo's workforce,” said New York Power Authority Chairman and Buffalo resident John R. Koelmel. “The public-private partnerships responsible for developing this program exemplify why Buffalo is known as the ‘City of Good Neighbors.’ NYPA is proud to have contributed to the development of this program, which will provide local students with the skills and training needed in today’s automotive industry and support the economic vitality of our community.”

 

“The automotive technician program has the opportunity to have a positive impact and be transformative for residents on the East Side of Buffalo,” said Northland Workforce Training Center President and CEO Stephen Tucker. “I’d like to thank NYPA, West Herr, and Northtown Auto for their contributions and support. We’re excited to offer this program in partnership with SUNY Erie and look forward to supporting residents interested in pursuing outstanding careers within the automotive sector.”

 

Northland’s unique automotive technician program combines classroom curriculum with hands-on educational sessions in a new state-of-the-art auto tech lab, providing students with a robust training experience to support future careers in the automotive industry. The program’s curriculum was developed by SUNY Erie Community College, and Northtown Automotive and West Herr Auto Group advised on the development of the auto lab. In September 2023, the New York Power Authority awarded Northland $1,174,600 in funding to support the program, which cost more than $4.3 million to implement.

 

“Northland Workforce Training Center's automotive technician program aligns with the Power Authority’s commitment to foster technology and energy education and job training in underserved communities throughout New York,” said New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll. “This program, supported by more than $1 million in NYPA funding, will help bridge the skills gap in the automotive sector and ensure local students are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the industry.”

 

The 30 students currently enrolled in the program are expected to complete the course in August 2025. Northland is currently accepting applications for the fall semester, which starts in September 2025.

 

Today’s announcement builds on Governor Kathy Hochul’s efforts to support workforce development centers throughout New York State. In February, Governor Hochul announced that the Capital Region, Finger Lakes and Mohawk Valley have been selected to advance to the planning stage of the $200 million One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships (ON-RAMP) program. The ON-RAMP program will create a network of high-impact workforce development centers to connect New Yorkers with careers in dynamic, high-growth advanced manufacturing industries. Training for the ON-RAMP program is based on the highly successful model developed by Northland Workforce Training Center, which reduces all the major barriers that prohibit students from enrolling and completing post-secondary education such as transportation, childcare, academic readiness and affordability.

 

Northland Workforce Training Center is an industry-driven, public-private partnership between employers, educational institutions, community and faith-based organizations, and state and local government focused on closing the skills gap of the local labor pool and creating economic on-ramps to training, co-ops, internships, apprenticeships, and permanent employment for Western New Yorkers. Northland is an extension campus for SUNY Erie Community College and Alfred State and also offers programs in mechatronics, welding, electrical, and machining. Since its inception, Northland has prepared more than 1,300 Western New Yorkers for careers in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

 

The Power Authority is committed to supporting historically underserved and marginalized communities located near its statewide facilities and assets. In 2016, NYPA provided $15 million in funding to support the development of Northland, which has served as a cornerstone for the economic revival of East Buffalo. Northland’s development was also supported by $23 million from Empire State Development directly to the Northland Workforce Training Center, as well as more than $30 million from ESD for other facilities across the campus. Last year, NYPA donated a 2017 Chevy Volt, an electric vehicle (EV) charger and a mix of associated EV shop tools to Northland for use in its forthcoming clean energy center.

 

“The Northland Workforce Training Center and the New York State Power Authority have been great partners in this venture. I also appreciate the continuous support we receive from our state and local leaders. This model puts students first, meeting them where they are.  By utilizing practical, hands-on technical training with an uncompromising academic program, students have a direct pathway to in-demand careers and economic mobility” said Dr. Adiam Tsegai, SUNY Erie Community College President. “I was so happy to be a part of this partnership at its start, because I could see the great potential and the opportunity to create a win-win for our students and our industry partners.”

 

"The demand for automotive technicians has increased significantly over the past decade," said Vice President of Fixed Operations at West Herr Automotive Group Jay Galligan. "Industry and education must be aligned for this skilled trade to grow and evolve with the technology and demand. The Northland Program brings together SUNY Erie and industry partners like West Herr to ensure relevant training is being provided to students who will graduate with employment-ready skills. The lab and classrooms are set up to support direct, hands-on learning, providing a great head-start. We are honored to be part of this partnership and look forward to the future success this program will bring for our community."

 

“The Northtown Automotive Companies are proud to have had the opportunity to contribute towards the development and success of this worthy endeavor,” said Director of Fixed Operations at Northtown Automotive Companies Bill Holm. “Northtown takes an active approach towards addressing the staffing needs of the automotive industry and has benefited directly from our relationship with the Northland Workforce Training Center as well as through our role as an extension campus for SUNY/ECC. The unique and innovative curriculum being offered through this collaboration will benefit both the industry and the city of Buffalo by providing not only training, but a career path to success.”

 

“The Northland Workforce Training Center is the State’s signature workforce initiative—and fast becoming a model for other communities to emulate,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “The new automative technician program at Northland is another example of the public and private sector coming together to help fill a critical regional workforce need and to do so in a manner that creates real opportunities for our most underserved communities.”

 

“With this new automotive technician service program Northland continues to diversify and innovate,” said New York State Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes. “We thank NYPA and SUNY Erie for their commitment to the community. This partnership gives students the necessary training and skills building for a successful career in the automotive industry.”

 

"In just a few short months, 30 area students will embark on a new career path thanks to the collaborative work by the Northland Workforce Training Center, the NY State Power Authority, and SUNY Erie Community College,” said New York State Senator April Baskin. “This innovative program positions graduates to work in a lifelong and fulfilling career, adding stability, economic growth, and an enhanced quality of life for the students and their families. This is truly teamwork at its best."

 

“Erie County’s workforce is second to none and this new Automotive Service Tech program will be a great way to upskill individuals quickly to get them into good-paying jobs in the automotive sector,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “I thank the partners involved for their commitment to helping individuals succeed and building a better Erie County for the future.”

 

"Developing and investing in Buffalo’s workforce is a top priority, and this program is a perfect example of how we can provide skilled labor opportunities that prepare our residents for the evolving job market,” said City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher Scanlon. “The Automotive Technician Program will not only equip participants with the training and experience they need for in-demand careers but also strengthen our local economy. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York Power Authority, and our community partners—Northland Workforce Training Center, SUNY Erie Community College, Northtown Automotive Companies, and West Herr Automotive Group—for their commitment to workforce development. Their dedication ensures that Buffalo’s workforce remains strong, competitive, and ready for the future."

 

“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the Northland Workforce Training Center, the New York Power Authority, and SUNY Erie Community College for their steadfast collaboration in developing transformative programs that directly benefit our community,” said Erie County Legislator Lawrence Dupre. “The launch of the new Auto Tech Training Program not only ensures the retention of valuable jobs within District 1, but also strengthens the economic fabric of the city we proudly call home. This initiative plays a pivotal role in bridging the skills gap, offering students a meaningful pathway to success during a time when the cost of higher education can often be a significant barrier. I am truly grateful for the continued commitment and leadership of these institutions in driving regional growth and opportunity.”

 

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About NYPA 

NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr and LinkedIn.