Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center to Host Free Open House for Community Residents

August 11, 2022

Facility focused on accelerated training programs to get individuals quickly into the workforce

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Community members across the Finger Lakes region will have opportunities to walk through the Finger Lakes Workforce Development (FWD) Center for a firsthand look at Industry 4.0 technologies that are driving the future of work within high-demand career fields, such as information technology and advanced manufacturing, at the FWD Center community open house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13.

Robotics equipment in a FWD Center simulation lab prepares learners to begin careers in growing fields.

Some of the features of the FWD Center, located within Monroe Community College’s Downtown Campus on 321 State St., include:

A cutting-edge Smart Factory that simulates a production system in the advanced manufacturing workplace.

A 25,000-square-foot, flame-resistant lab display that supports skilled trades training.

Simulation labs allowing for real-world scenarios involving robotics, mechatronics, augmented reality/virtual reality, and automation.

New courses and programs, including in networking and data analytics, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.

The open house features self-guided tours and equipment demonstrations. Community members can learn about career exploration and counseling services, job-placement assistance, short-term training programs for technology-oriented careers, work-based learning opportunities, and tuition assistance options available. The event is open to all community members, from high school and college students to working parents, military veterans, and individuals who are unemployed or underemployed.

“We know the pandemic has created challenging times for our community. The FWD Center is here to help,” said Dr. Robin Cole Jr., vice president of Economic and Workforce Development and Career Technical Education at Monroe Community College. “We are committed to connecting local residents with good jobs, and we know that through community events at the FWD Center, our residents will realize the high-quality, fast-track training programs at the FWD Center will provide them with opportunities for stable employment, offering family-sustaining wages.”

Individuals interested in attending the FWD Center open house can register online at www.FWD-Center.com/RSVP. The first 100 attendees will receive a free T-shirt.