IAM Transition Task Force Recommends CVES for Institute Operation
PLATTSBURGH — Clinton Community College’s Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (IAM) is set to continue supporting the North Country and its workforce needs.
The Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (IAM) Transition Task Force, chaired by Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber, formally recommended that Clinton-Essex-Warren Washington BOCES (Champlain Valley Educational Services) assume full operation and maintenance of the facility starting July 1, 2025, through a long-term lease with Clinton County, which supports the IAM Task Force’s recommendation.
“The Clinton County Legislature welcomes this recommendation and looks forward to working with BOCES/CVES to fine tune the details in order to deploy an action plan that would get students in the classrooms as quickly as is feasible,” said Clinton County Legislature Chairman Mark Henry. “Overall, the Legislature remains committed to maintaining the integrity of the IAM and we thank the Task Force for their efforts in finding a resolution.”
CV-TEC, the Career & Technical Education Division of CVES, will provide workforce development training to the community, utilizing the facility and equipment to support the education of adult learners and high school students.
“Champlain Valley Educational Services is committed to supporting the growing educational needs of our region,” said CVES District Superintendent Dr. Mark Davey. “Through this new partnership, we look forward to building on our successful track record of CV-TEC offering excellent opportunities, resources, and training to students, and providing North Country employers with new and talented candidates who strengthen our region’s workforce.”
Clinton Community College supports the transition and anticipates an enhanced partnership with CV-TEC.
During its research process, the IAM Transition Task Force sought an entity with the fiscal capacity to maintain and enhance the IAM as a center for industrial and technology skills training. The Task Force determined that CVES can boost workforce productivity, attract quality employers, and improve economic well-being and quality of life for residents.
CVES will continue collaborating with community stakeholders to develop new programming that impacts the North Country positively.
CVES is prepared to collaborate with Clinton Community College to facilitate current and future instructional programs the college may have at IAM. Additionally, CVES is committed to identifying and implementing agreements between CV-TEC and Clinton Community College, ensuring CCC/SUNY credit-bearing status whenever feasible.
The mission and vision of CVES align perfectly with the prerequisites identified by the IAM Transition Task Force for an administering entity with a strong track record in designing, coordinating, and executing diverse forms of training appropriate to IAM’s mission.
Furthermore, the Transition Task Force sought an organization demonstrating commitment to collaboration and partnership with schools, training providers, economic developers, and employer representatives, maximizing the value of IAM.
“This is a completely positive outcome for all concerned, including Clinton Community College, CVES and especially our region’s manufacturers and all who can benefit from the training made possible by the IAM,” said Douglas. “CVES’ CV-TEC division has the experience and commitment to take the IAM to a top level of training activity that will support and attract quality jobs and help many of our residents enhance their skills and careers.”
Details of the lease agreement will be finalized between Clinton County and CVES at a later date as both parties work through the transition process.