Binghamton, NY – On Tuesday, October 21st, the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, the Alliance for Manufacturing and Technology (AMT), and SUNY Broome Community College, proudly announced the launch of the first Real Life Rosies cohort in the Greater Binghamton Area.

As New York State’s first direct-entry pre-apprenticeship program for women, Real Life Rosies inspires and empowers women to pursue rewarding careers in manufacturing or advance in existing manufacturing roles — echoing the spirit of the original “Rosie the Riveter” while shaping a modern, inclusive workforce for the future.

This program is designed to provide hands-on technical training, professional development, and networking opportunities to help women strengthen and grow their careers in manufacturing.

“We are thrilled to welcome our first cohort of incumbent workers to the Real Life Rosies program here in Greater Binghamton,” said Stacey Duncan, CEO of the Leadership Alliance. “These women are the backbone of our local manufacturing workforce. This initiative is about recognizing their talents and equipping them with tools for continued growth.”

“We are proud to partner with the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce, AMT, and SUNY Broome to bring the Real Life Rosies program to the Southern Tier,” said Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY, The Manufacturers Association. “This initiative continues our commitment to building a more inclusive manufacturing workforce by providing women with the skills, training, and confidence to succeed in high-demand careers. Together, we are helping shape the next generation of industry leaders who will strengthen our communities and drive New York’s economy forward.”

“Programs like Real Life Rosies play a vital role in strengthening our regional manufacturing workforce,” said Carol Miller, Executive Director of the Alliance for Manufacturing and Technology (AMT). “We are proud to work with our partners to help women build new skills, confidence, and connections — supporting both their career growth and the long-term success of our manufacturing community.”

“At SUNY Broome, we are champions of empowering individuals to enter fields in which they are underrepresented,” Dr. Tony D. Hawkins, President of SUNY Broome Community College, said. “Through our institution’s degree and microcredential programs, we are training a growing number of women for careers in this high-demand industry, and we’re grateful to be part of this program, which helps make these careers accessible and attainable.”

“The Real Life Rosies program is an important addition to our community. After learning about the program’s success in other parts of the state, I was happy to advocate for funding in this year’s state budget to support its expansion into the Southern Tier. This initiative will help build a stronger and more inclusive manufacturing workforce, uplifting women into industry leadership roles,” said Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo.

Two Endicott-based manufacturers, National Pipe & Plastics and BAE Systems, will be sending incumbent workers to participate in the fall session. The first cohort represents a diverse group of talented women already making an impact in regional manufacturing companies. Through this program, participants will build on their existing skills to prepare for advancement opportunities and leadership roles within their organizations.

“We’re excited for our colleagues to take part in the Real Life Rosies pre-apprenticeship program this fall. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to gain new skills, earn valuable certifications, and experience all the benefits this innovative program has to offer.”-Jeff Bridge, President, National Pipe and Plastics.

Classes officially begin October 21, 2025, at the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce and will include training modules focused on technical skill development, workplace communication, and career advancement.

For more information about Real Life Rosies, please visit: https://www.macny.org/rosies