We want to hear from you! 

Sylvie Nelson

Interim Executive Director

Sylvie Nelson is a recognized leader in workforce development, committed to building an equitable and just economy through inclusive, innovative, and employer‑aligned strategies. With a career dedicated to expanding economic opportunity, she brings a deep understanding of how policy, education, and industry partnerships intersect to create pathways to thriving wages for all New Yorkers.

A small business owner and long‑time champion of experiential learning, Sylvie has shaped the future workforce through an international STEM program connecting New York State’s North Country schools with global companies transforming the education landscape. Her work has consistently centered on preparing young people and adults for the skills demanded by a rapidly changing economy.

Before stepping into the role of Interim Executive Director at NYATEP, Sylvie served for a decade as Executive Director of the North Country Workforce Development Board (NCWDB) and the North Country Workforce Partnership (NCWP). She is a seasoned expert in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and a vocal advocate for policies that support working families—including access to quality education and training, thriving wages, and affordable, accessible child care that enables individuals to fully participate in the labor force. She firmly believes that workforce development is economic development.

Most recently, Sylvie coordinated an international study visit to Montréal, Québec, bringing together New York State child care professionals and business leaders to learn from Québec’s world‑renowned early childhood education model. This work is now informing the innovative efforts of the Dutchess County Early Learning Coalition and contributing to statewide conversations on child care as essential economic infrastructure.

Sylvie has been invited to speak on national and international panels, highlighting the critical role of education in workforce development and the importance of innovation in advancing equity and economic mobility.

She holds a B.A. in English from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas; a B.A. in Communication Studies and a Graduate Diploma in Journalism from Concordia University in Montréal, Québec, Canada. She is fluent in French.

Megan Farry

Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships

LINKEDIN PROFILE

Megan Farry is the Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships and Communications at the New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP). In this role, she works to support and connect workforce resources throughout the Western New York region, develop and deepen relationships with national best-in-class providers, and oversee NYATEP’s communication efforts. In her previous role with the Buffalo and Erie County Workforce Development Consortium, Inc., she was responsible for developing and executing career pathway training programs. Megan is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with experience spanning a variety of industries including commercial real estate, manufacturing, and multinational workforce solution firms. She holds a Communications degree from the State University of New York College at Fredonia.

Joelle Monaco

Director of LevelUp 

LINKEDIN PROFILE

Joelle Monaco is passionate about educating others from a People First Principle; an organization's employees are their most valuable asset — each with their own experiences, assets, and purpose. Joelle's expertise expands over thirteen years in organizational development with over eight years in the mental health field.

Joelle has extensive experience in assessment, planning, directing, and training enhancements for people and organizational success, working with more than 1,500 individuals annually through creative sessions, training and development, and consulting. These experiences have provided Joelle with professional opportunities to build the skills and abilities required to lead teams and empower individuals to achieve professional and organizational goals while fostering a people-first approach.

Joelle is a current lecturer for SUNY Albany's Professional Adult & Continuing Knowledge department and has been a trainer for the National Council for Mental Wellbeing for over six years. Additionally, Joelle currently sits on the board of directors for the New York State Public Health Association.

Joelle received her MBA and BS in Psychology with a minor in Education from the University at Albany, New York.

When Joelle isn't at work, Joelle enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new restaurants and shops, and meeting new people! 

Adrienne Ceneviva

Director of Development & Events

LINKEDIN PROFILE

Adrienne Ceneviva is the Director of Development & Events at the New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP). In this role, she leads the coordination, planning and fundraising efforts for NYATEP hosted trainings, special events, and meetings. In her previous role as a Community Outreach and Events Manager, she was responsible for planning events, as well as creating and fostering relationships with local organizations and businesses. Adrienne has experience planning events of all kinds, and creating marketing and promotional materials. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing from Siena College in Loudonville, NY.