A Workforce Engine for the North Country

By Steven G. Frederick • Photos by Jessica McCafferty

Billy Jones

The Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (IAM) at Clinton Community College (CCC) is more than a building — it’s a focused center for workforce development and emerging needs for the North Country. This was part of the original vision for the facility, one now advanced and prioritized as the college moved its primary campus to the city of Plattsburgh over the summer of 2025.

“It is important for the IAM to serve the workforce and businesses of our community through a facility and programming that meets the collective needs of our region,” said Ken Knelly, Acting President of the college. “We are working to grow partnerships with industry, the Chamber of Commerce, other education providers, and more. The college expects the IAM to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”

Building on the Vision

The IAM was born from a 2016 feasibility study co-funded by The Development Corporation and the Clinton Community College Foundation. The study concluded:

“For Clinton County to thrive economically, it will need to align current and projected workforce development initiatives with current and future industry needs. The development of a Clinton County Advanced Manufacturing Institute (AMI) or related collaborative workforce development initiative is envisioned as a way to accomplish this task.”

With $12.7 million secured through the SUNY 2020 Challenge Grant program, and support from the North Country Regional Economic Development Council, the IAM was built to serve existing businesses and attract new ones. Its mission was clear: provide state-of-the-art customized training for the incumbent workforce and offer stackable credentials, certificates and Associate degrees—especially for high school students—as pathways to careers in advanced manufacturing.

IAM’s core functions quickly took root. In its early years, the facility was bustling with activity—credit-bearing classes, customized training, and events like Manufacturing Day, which drew over 500 high school students annually. Staffing challenges, declining enrollment and the COVID-19 pandemic impacted operations and the IAM, once a vibrant hub, was left underutilized.

With the college’s strategic decision to relocate its main campus to buildings at SUNY Plattsburgh, the IAM remained at the former Bluff Point campus and its future hinged on transformation. To continue serving the community, it needed a new business model —one focused on staffing, program assessment, strategic partnerships, innovative funding, and aggressive promotion.

The Next Stage Takes Shape

In May 2024, Knelly was appointed Administrator in Charge of CCC and now serves as Acting President. Under his leadership, the college earned reaccreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and completed an unprecedented relocation, including the successful move of nursing and EMT labs to renovated space at University of Vermont Health – CVPH.

Joining the team in September 2025 was former New York State Assemblyman Billy Jones as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Workforce Development. With over two decades in public service, Jones brings a wealth of experience and connections across industries, government and communities on both sides of the border.

Jones has begun revitalizing the IAM, hiring key personnel like Stan Kissel, Interim Director of Workforce Development. Kissel oversees non-credit programs, certificates and customized training tailored to local manufacturing needs. Instructors are being added to offer daytime and evening courses, expanding access for working adults and employers.

“With the original vision of the IAM in mind, we are actively reaching out to businesses and companies to fulfill their workforce needs. By offering a variety of options to industry through pre-employment training, professional development, apprenticeships, and high-quality employee training; we are meeting the needs of our business community and creating pathways for individuals looking to enhance their careers,” stated Jones.

Partnerships Power Progress

The IAM’s success is not Clinton Community College’s alone. It will grow with strong partnerships, including CV-TEC/CVES, the North Country Chamber of Commerce, the North Country Workforce Investment Board, The Development Corporation (TDC), and area manufacturers. Institutions like SUNY Plattsburgh and Clarkson University can also play a role.

CV-TEC has demonstrated its immense value to the community with a successful track record in workforce development. The Chamber brings expertise in grant funding and employer engagement. Together, these partners can help shape a strong identity for the IAM — one that places it at the center of community consciousness and positions it as a catalyst for regional growth.

The college’s signs display the words “We Work,” reflecting a renewed focus and value of the institution and its programs. It is not just branding, it’s a commitment to building a 24/7, program filled, partner-fueled advanced manufacturing center that meets the needs of employers and learners alike.

The IAM offers a range of academic and workforce pathways, including:

• Credit Programs: Degrees and certificates in Computer Information Technology & Cybersecurity, Mechanical Technology and Industrial/Commercial Electrician (in partnership with IBEW).

• Non-Credit Training: Welding Academy, CAD, robotics, programmable logic controllers, hydraulics, safety, and customized industry-specific training.

• Micro-credentials: SUNY-recognized credentials in Advanced Manufacturing Essential Skills I & II, which are TAP-eligible and stackable.

• The IAM also supports innovative partnerships like the Michelin Scholars Program, which provides eligible students scholarships, part-time work, and guaranteed employment after graduation.

Manufacturing Day and Community Engagement

The annual Manufacturing Day remains a signature event, drawing hundreds of students to explore careers in advanced manufacturing. It’s a powerful tool for outreach, inspiration and connection between education and industry.

Community workshops are also returning with plans to considerably increase these workshops while at the same time reaching different target groups. Expanded offerings in areas like home repair and woodworking are being explored, making the IAM a true community resource.

The IAM’s future is bright. With accreditation secured, a new vice president and a strategic marketing push underway, the college is poised to grow both credit and non-credit programs. Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships are in development, supported by SUNY and state funding. Plans are underway to revise renewable energy programs and add maintenance and repair pathways to serve local industries.

The Institute for Advanced Manufacturing is reclaiming its role as a vital educational and economic asset for the North Country. With visionary leadership, strategic partnerships and a renewed commitment to workforce development, the IAM is helping Clinton County — and the region — thrive.

Institute for Advanced Manufacturing

Bluff Point Drive

Plattsburgh, NY 12901

(518) 562-4200

www.clinton.edu/workforce