New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said $5 million has been earmarked for SUNY and CUNY community colleges to create credential programs or courses aiding pathways to cannabis industry employment.
“New York’s new cannabis industry is creating exciting opportunities, and we will ensure that New Yorkers who want careers in this growing sector have the quality training they need to be successful,” Hochul said. “Diversity and inclusion are what makes New York’s workforce a competitive, powerful asset, and we will continue to take concrete steps to help ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate in the cannabis industry.”
The institutions are slated to create or enhance non-degree and degree-eligible courses and programs, stackable credentials, and/or microcredentials addressing employer skill needs within the cannabis sector.
Additionally, selected campuses must partner with local employers in the cannabis industry and receive input on curriculum development.
“I am thankful to Governor Hochul and our partners at SUNY and CUNY community colleges for developing programs that will help develop a diverse, equitable, and accessible New York cannabis industry,” Cannabis Control Board Chair Tremaine Wright said. “As our cannabis industry grows, so does our need for skilled workers, and this is a wonderful way to create opportunities for New Yorkers.”
The cannabis credentialing program is in accordance with Hochul’s commitment to delivering new employment opportunities to New Yorkers, especially those from historically underserved communities.