NYATEP is excited to announce that applications are now available for the 2023-2024 Workforce Academy for Policy and Advocacy!  

This intensive, informative, and fun training will guide you through the ins-and-outs of the federal and state political, legislative and budgetary processes and provide a candid take on New York politics. To date, more than 280 professionals from 120 organizations have participated in the Academy. 

The 2023-2024 Workforce Academy for Policy & Advocacy will be a mix of hybrid and in-person sessions, providing 20-25 participants from across New York the opportunity to participate both virtually and face to face at NYATEP’s headquarters in Albany. 

This program is a five-month immersive professional development experience that will provide participants with: 

• Invaluable, REAL advocacy skills
• How the Federal, State and local legislative systems really work
• Grow their network of workforce colleagues from Upstate and Downstate
• Participate in legislative visits with Congressional and State Legislators to put their skills into practice
• How to create a policy brief for state advocacy

APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2023!

Who should apply to participate in the Academy?

Mid-high level workforce professionals (i.e. 3-5 years' experience; serving in a leadership position within your organization; and have the opportunity to influence the policy-engagement/ advocacy activities at your organization). All accepted applicants MUST have an active NYATEP membership to participate. No exceptions. 

2023-2024 Session Dates

Kick Off Retreat (In Person)
Location: NYATEP Headquarters, 515 Broadway, Albany, NY

Monday, November 13th, 2023: 10:00AM – 4:00PM
Academy Intro; Overview of Workforce History; Legislative Panel; Project Overview 

Tuesday November 14th, 2023: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Advocacy Essentials

Federal Workforce Advocacy (Virtual)

Monday, December 11th, 2023: 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Federal Overview & Conducting Effective Legislative Meetings  
Congressional Visits

State Workforce Advocacy (In Person) 
Location: NYATEP Headquarters, 515 Broadway, Albany & NYS Capitol 

Thursday, January 18th, 2024:
10:00AM - 4:00PM
Overview of NYS Legislative Process, Budget, Workforce Development System and Legislative Priorities

Friday, January 19th, 2024: 9:00AM - 3:00PM
NYS Legislative Visits 

Workforce Advocates Town Hall (Virtual) 

Tuesday, January 31st, 2024: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
A statewide event that will provide the latest in federal, state, and local workforce policy for Academy Alumni, current academy members, workforce system partners and legislative staff. This event will provide attendees with an advocacy refresher and the opportunities to utilize their skills in Washington, Albany, and across New York.

Essentials of Coalition Building (Virtual) 

Friday, February, 9th, 2024: 9:00AM - 1:00PM
How to Build Effective Coalitions & Understanding the Ins & Outs of State Advocacy 

Completion Ceremony/Group Project Presentations (Virtual)

Friday, February 23th, 2024: 9:00AM-12:00PM
Participant presentations of Policy Briefs & Completion Certificates 

NYS Workforce Advocacy Day (In Person)
Location: NYS Capitol 

TBD
Participants will join NYATEP and advocates from across New York State for a full day of state legislative meetings focused on workforce development.