UB among 7 SUNY schools awarded grants to launch wind farm job training programs

A wind turbine spins at sunrise on July 20, 2022 in Lido Beach, New York.
A wind turbine spins at sunrise on July 20, 2022 in Lido Beach, New York. Photo credit Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WBEN) — Seven SUNY schools, including UB, will split $4 million in grants to launch wind farm jobs training programs, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday.

The training will prepare students for jobs constructing, manufacturing, installing, operating and maintaining offshore wind farms.

Alfred State College, University at Buffalo, Farmingdale State College, Hudson Valley Community College, Suffolk County Community College, SUNY Polytechnic Institute and Stony Brook University will all receive money for wind farm programs.

Ten programs across the seven schools were each awarded $500,000.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority evaluated candidates for the grants, each of which focused on expanding existing curricula, responding to targeted training needs or breaking barriers to entry.

"Nation-leading programs like the Offshore Wind Training Institute are essential to ensuring that the State's workforce is ready to support our ambitious renewable energy goals," said Hochul. "SUNY, in partnership with NYSERDA, is equipping new and existing workers to participate in the green energy revolution here in New York for generations to come — helping us address the climate crisis and create a greener state for all."

The state plans to award more grants some time this summer.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images