SC New York News

Mayor Jared M. Kraham on Monday announced a funding partnership with the Multi-Craft Apprenticeship Preparation Program (MAPP) to open a construction trades training facility at 89 Robinson Street on Binghamton’s East Side. 

“This is an historic investment in workforce development that will help fill in-demand construction jobs in Binghamton and across our community,” said Mayor Jared M. Kraham. “MAPP will be providing ladders of opportunity to good-paying careers in the construction industry, with the potential to create generational change for the residents who participate. As we rebuild and revitalize Binghamton, we have to invest in the construction workforce to support it.”

The City of Binghamton is providing $275,000 to fund MAPP’s purchase of an industrial building at 89 Robinson Street

The building had been home to Southern Tier Printers Supply, Inc., which bought and sold printing equipment and parts. The business owner is retiring after more than 45 years.

The first-ever group of participants in the Binghamton MAPP program will complete a build-out of the new location.

Founded in Rochester in 2017, MAPP is a non-profit providing pathways to state-registered apprenticeships in the building and construction trades. Participants receive foundational construction training and real-world jobsite experience, and are matched with apprenticeship programs best fitting their skillset.

MAPP focuses on recruitment and training of individuals historically underrepresented in construction trades.

“MAPP provides training, education and a hands-on learning experience for historically disadvantaged and underrepresented individuals interested in the construction industry,” said Kereem Berry, Executive Director of MAPP. “The program helps address the lack of diversity within the field and provides a pathway to long-term careers. We’re excited to partner with the City of Binghamton to expand our services to a new community where skilled tradespeople are in high demand.”

In 2021, MAPP opened its second location in Albany, where participants are trained in skills critical to the clean energy transition. Binghamton will be the organization’s third New York State branch.

“The Binghamton—Oneonta Building and Construction Trades Council is proud to be a part of the expansion of MAPP in the City of Binghamton,” said Robert Aikens, President of the Binghamton—Oneonta Building and Construction Trades Council. “The purchase of this building and expansion of MAPP’s program, which will provide training on in-demand skills, will make more opportunities available for young people looking to enter the construction industry and help grow the industry in our area.”

The partnership will be paid for through the City’s allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and presented at City Council’s January 23 work session.

Original source can be found here.