Advocating for New Yorkers: Highlights from NYATEP’s 2025 Workforce Advocacy Day

NYATEP’s Workforce Advocacy Day was a powerful reminder of the collective strength we harness when workforce professionals, employers, educators, and advocates unite to push for meaningful policy change. Held on March 18th at the New York State Capitol in Albany, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to advancing workforce development across New York State.

We extend our sincere thanks to Senator Roxanne Persaud for sharing her time with the group, as well as NYCETC, Metrix Learning / Workforce180, and Plummer, Wigger, & Hohman, LLC for their generous support of this event.

The day was filled with impactful conversations, passionate testimonies, and powerful calls to action focused on strengthening workforce funding, expanding employer-driven training programs, and ensuring equitable access to opportunity for all New Yorkers. Workforce professionals, youth advocates, and policy experts shared valuable insights on the challenges in today’s labor market and the urgent need for legislative action to support long-term economic growth.

Attendees met with state legislators to advocate for workforce development policies that prioritize access to education and training. They shared compelling stories that showcased the real-life impact of workforce programs and their positive ripple effects on local communities and economies.

Looking Ahead

Workforce Advocacy Day reinforced the critical need to keep pushing for policies that strengthen workforce systems. By investing in training, expanding access to quality job opportunities, and fostering partnerships between employers and educators, we can build a competitive, skilled workforce that drives economic mobility and inclusive growth across the state.

As we reflect on the success of the day, we are inspired by the powerful voices that spoke up for New York’s workers and the future of workforce development. NYATEP is proud to continue this work alongside our members, partners, and advocates to secure the resources our workforce needs to thrive.

Thank you to everyone who participated in Workforce Advocacy Day 2025! Your commitment to this cause is what makes real, lasting change possible.

Stay Involved: If you couldn’t attend this year’s event, there are still many ways to make an impact. Visit our website to find upcoming events, webinars, and advocacy opportunities that help support workforce development across New York.