Washington, DC – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $150,000 in federal funding for Triple Cities Makerspace in Binghamton. The funding was administered through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and will help Triple Cities Makerspace implement a workforce training program with local schools, libraries, and businesses in advanced manufacturing and high-tech jobs. Specifically, the funding will be used to help create a STEM-based advanced manufacturing curriculum for students focused on the needs of local manufacturers. Triple Cities Makerspace plans to conduct some of this training in their new mobile lab that will be equipped with high-tech tools such as laser cutters and 3D printers. The mobile lab will also be available for use by local libraries and schools to train teachers in STEM instructional skills. Gillibrand pushed for this funding and wrote a letter of support for Triple Cities Makerspace’s grant application.
“This federal funding is a major shot in the arm to the Broome County economy that will help students developed the advanced skills needed to get and keep good-paying jobs in the 21st century economy,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud of the role I played in securing this funding that will ensure the Southern Tier’s workforce is as prepared and educated as possible, and will always fight for investments that boost opportunities for stable employment.”
“This funding is an important investment in the Southern Tier’s workforce because it will help train students for jobs in the advanced manufacturing sector,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This supports our local economies, and helps ensure that New Yorkers have the skills to compete for the jobs of today and tomorrow. I was proud to fight on behalf of Triple Cities Makerspace for this funding, and I will continue to work in the Senate for the resources our communities need to be successful.”
“We are excited to be able to help address the needs of the unemployed and underserved populations within our community, including veterans. The Makerspace will now be able to offer its knowledge and technology resources to provide advanced manufacturing workforce training. In doing so, we aim to tackle the problem facing advance manufacturers with locating trained and qualified employees to fill their open positions. With our new mobile laboratory we will also be able to assist schools and other community centers of learning expand STEAM programming throughout Broome County,” said Stephen Musok, Treasurer and Board Member, Triple Cities Makerspace.
The funding was allocated through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 420 counties across the Appalachian region. More information can be found here.
The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to the Appalachian Regional Commission may be found here and below.
Mr. Tim Thomas
Federal Co-Chair
Appalachian Regional Commission
Suite 700
1666 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20009
Dear Mr. Thomas,
I write in support of the application submitted by Triple Cities Makerspace, Inc. for funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission. This funding will be used to increase advanced manufacturing training and STEM education in the Southern Tier region of New York State.
Located in the City of Binghamton, Triple Cities Makerspace is a community workspace where makers of all ages, specialties, and skill-levels can collaborate and create. The organization also functions as an education center, providing both resources and training in the areas of metalworking, woodshop, laser cutting, and 3D printing, among others.
The requested funding will be used to increase advanced manufacturing training and STEM education through a variety of initiatives across the Southern Tier. In partnership with SUNY Broome Community College, Broome-Tioga Workforce NY, and other community partners, Triple Cities Makerspace will develop workshops and training programs to increase workforce readiness in the region. Much of this programming targets students and youth, particularly those in underserved areas. This funding will ensure that more students and workers are given the skills necessary for advanced manufacturing industries in Upstate New York, bringing renewed economic opportunity to the region.
I ask that you please give this application your full consideration. If you have any questions, or desire further information, please do not hesitate to contact my staff member, Laura Driscoll, at (202) 224-4451.
Sincerely,