Speaker Carl Heastie today continued his annual statewide, joining Assemblymember Donna Lupardo in Binghamton to announce a $1.3 million investment that would enable Broome-Tioga BOCES to develop a trades complex for training heavy equipment operators, truck drivers, electricians, carpenters and masons.

“Broome-Tioga BOCES plays an essential role in making sure that New York has a well-trained workforce,” said Speaker Heastie. “I am proud to be here today to join Assemblymember Lupardo in announcing this critical investment that will allow Broome-Tioga BOCES to expand its educational opportunities and keep New York moving forward.”

“The need for individuals skilled in the trades grows every day. This new BT-BOCES Trades Complex will ensure a steady supply of trained professionals will be ready to enter the workforce,” said Assemblymember Lupardo. “I am grateful to Speaker Heastie for his support in securing this funding and for being here to join me today in making this special announcement.”

Speaker Heastie joined Assemblymember Lupardo at Broome-Tioga BOCES and met with Superintendent Rebecca Stone, several key administrators and a student where they discussed plans to develop a trades complex that would include a road for CDL-A truck driver training classes and a small classroom with a solar installation for electrical students. The funding would also help the facility purchase a truck for training CDL-A drivers and a pole barn to cover large equipment.