National Grid Foundation Assists Onondaga Community College Expand Pathways Into High-Demand Careers

The support of the National Grid Foundation will allow OCC to increase training opportunities for students pursuing careers as Certified Nursing Assistants, Home Health Aides, and Medical Assistants - fields facing urgent workforce shortages. Funding will also support an accelerated advanced manufacturing bootcamp for adult learners, combining hands-on technical instruction with professional skills development to prepare participants for immediate employment. In addition to fast-tracking job readiness, the program creates clear pathways into associate degree programs for students who choose to continue their education.

“Through the National Grid Scholars program, we are expanding access to high-quality training in fields where employers urgently need skilled workers. We are grateful to the National Grid Foundation for partnering with us to address workforce challenges and create new opportunities for our students,” said Onondaga Community College President Dr. Warren Hilton.

"Creating the National Grid Scholars Program at Onondaga Community College is about opening doors to meaningful, sustainable careers. By supporting students as they pursue education in high-demand fields, we’re helping create clear pathways into the workforce while strengthening the talent pipeline our industry and communities rely on. These programs connect education, mentorship, and real-world experience so students can turn their ambition into long-term opportunity and help shape a more sustainable energy future,” said Robert Simmons III, Vice President for Social Impact and Community Engagement for National Grid, and Executive Director of the National Grid Foundation.