Show Mobile Search Hide Mobile Search Show Mobile Social Media Hide Mobile Social Media Show Mobile Menu Hide Mobile Menu
Montgomery County Made of Something Stronger - Link to Homepage
Visit us on Facebook  Visit us on YouTube  Visit us on Twitter     View our Video Tour

Press Release

Publish Date: 4/24/2015

County Executive Ossenfort Appointed to State Workforce Investment Board

Montgomery County Executive Tabbed by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo For Statewide Post

FONDA - Montgomery County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort has been appointed to the State Workforce Investment Board (SWIB) by New York State Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. The SWIB is a key component for attracting businesses and growing jobs in New York State, a complement to the Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs).

"Workforce development is an often overlooked and critical component to economic development," Ossenfort said. "I'm excited that I will be able to work on these issues and help increase job opportunities for those in Montgomery County."

The board consists of state and local elected officials, agency leaders and appointed representatives from business, labor and youth organizations, education leaders and community-based organizations. The SWIB is the governance body for the workforce development, one-stop services delivery system as designated under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. It was reconstituted in January of 2014, in order to further strengthen New York's economy from the ground up.

Earlier this year, Governor Cuomo announced that Montgomery County would be one of 10 counties participating in a Strikeforce initiative to boost employment. This proposal, a multi-pronged employment services campaign, is a partnership with state agencies, such as Empire State Development, the State Department of Labor and other partners. As part of this proposal, money would be available to businesses looking to expand their workforce and can be used for on-the-job apprenticeship or customized training.

"I am encouraged that Governor Cuomo is targeting Montgomery County for increased occupational initiatives and job creation," Ossenfort said. "I look forward to helping generate employment opportunities for residents and also provide incentives for local businesses looking to hire qualified Montgomery County residents."

Ossenfort was elected as Montgomery County's first Executive in November 2013. He has a bachelor's degree from the University at Albany and is the founding member and president of Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County NY.