Roberta Reardon, Commissioner of New York State Department of Labor

In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, Harold King, President of the Council of Industry, speaks with Roberta Reardon, the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Labor and apprentice enthusiast. Harold and Commissioner Reardon discuss workforce development, registered apprenticeships, and the evolving role of the Department of Labor in supporting businesses and workers across the state. They also highlight the Council of Industry’s Manufacturing Intermediary Apprenticeship Program (MIAP), a New York State Department of Labor-registered program designed to help manufacturers upskill their employees through hands-on training and related technical instruction to earn industry-recognized credentials. MIAP has been instrumental in advancing the skills of their workforce, helping bridge the skill gap and increase productivity. Commissioner Reardon also delves into how the department balances enforcement with proactive support for employers, ensuring compliance while fostering growth opportunities. They also discuss the department’s efforts to promote digital literacy, and create pathways for workers to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. With a background that began in acting and union leadership, Commissioner Reardon’s journey to her current role is as inspiring as it is unconventional, showcasing her dedication to advocacy and workforce transformation. For more information about the Department of Labor and the services they offer go to https://dol.ny.gov/services-businesses.-For more information about the Council of Industry's MIAP apprentices program visit https://www.councilofindustry.org/apprentice-program

Om Podcasten

Meet the people behind the products. For more than a century The Council of Industry has been supporting Hudson Valley manufacturers. Through training, advocacy, networking, information, workforce development and more The Council of Industry helps its member grow and prosper in and increasingly complicated global marketplace. From semi-conductors to Jet engine turbines – from apple pie filling to smoked salmon – from cosmetics to high definition micro displays – Council members make the products that make the world run.Through our podcast we introduce listeners to the people who own, work in, and support these businesses, businesses that together are the Council of Industry. We learn about their products and career paths. We learn about their leadership styles and their passion for their work. We learn about their challenges and their opportunities. In the process we learn more about manufacturing and why it is such a vital sector of our economy- vital to our region’s prosperity, our security and our future.We hope you enjoy listening and getting to know the people behind the products. If you have suggestions for people who are part of the Hudson Valley manufacturing community who you would like to know more about or think our listeners would enjoy hearing from please let us know by emailing jhansen@councilofindustry.org.