Catskill Watershed Corporation Launches New Workforce Development Program

ARKVILLE — The Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC) is proud to announce the launch of its new Workforce Development Program, a competitive grant initiative designed to strengthen the workforce capacity within the West of Hudson (WOH) Watershed region.

The program provides funding to help individuals gain the knowledge, skills, training, certifications, professional licenses, and technical expertise needed to pursue and obtain a wide range of careers within and supporting WOH Watershed. By investing in workforce development, CWC aims to foster a well-trained, adaptable labor force that supports the region’s economic vitality while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

“This program is about building opportunity from within our communities,” said Jason Merwin, CWC Executive Director. “By supporting education, skill development, and career access, we’re helping residents and businesses thrive together while protecting the natural resources that make this region so special.”

Program Goals and Opportunities
The Workforce Development Program encourages projects that address workforce needs and create pathways to employment, including:

• Training and skill-building in sectors with current and emerging job opportunities within the WOH Watershed economy;

• Education and training for local residents in Watershed-related careers; and

• Paid apprenticeships and internships offering hands-on experience.

How It Works
CWC will accept grant applications twice per year: the first Friday of February and the first Friday of June. Applications will be evaluated by the CWC Board of Directors based on eligibility and alignment with program goals.

Eligible applicants include:

• Public, private, or charter schools (K–12), colleges, universities, vocational or trade schools, and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES);

• Not-for-profit organizations;

• Public entities such as municipalities, towns, villages, counties, and special-

purpose districts; and

• Private incorporated employers.

Projects may include apprenticeships, internships, mentorships, professional training programs, seminars, career development events, or the purchase of small supplies and technology directly related to workforce development initiatives.

How to Apply
Application materials and full program guidelines are available at https://cwconline.org/. Interested organizations can contact Gemma Young, Workforce Development Program Manager at 845-586-1400 ext. 109 or workforce@cwconline.org for more information.

The CWC is a locally based and locally staffed non-profit Local Development Corporation responsible for environmental protection, economic development and education programs in the New York City Watershed West of the Hudson River. www.cwconline.org