The Think Dutchess Alliance for Business has been named a winner of the Business Facilities 2024 Economic Development Organization (EDO) Awards in the category of mid-sized EDO (population 100,000 to 500,000) for its efforts in fostering partnerships between industry and education. The award-winning entry, “A Winning Partnership,” highlights the transformative effect of collaborative initiatives in Dutchess County.
Business Facilities, a magazine for corporate executives and site selection consultants looking to expand, relocate or establish company operations, developed the annual EDO Awards to honor organizations that demonstrate excellence in economic development initiatives and drive growth and prosperity in their respective communities.
Dutchess County has emerged as a hub for innovation and collaboration, with a focus on cultivating a skilled workforce to support its burgeoning industries. Key stakeholders, including IBM, onsemi, eMagin Corporation and MPI Inc., have made substantial investments in the region, solidifying Dutchess County’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and technology.
At the heart of Dutchess County’s success lies a strategic partnership among the alliance, Dutchess Community College (DCC), the Council of Industry and local manufacturers as well as other businesses and organizations. Each partner played a role in the execution of initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between industry needs and educational opportunities.
One notable result from this partnership is the establishment of the Mechatronics Lab at DCC in Fishkill, which opened its doors in the fall of 2023. This state-of-the-art facility, made possible through collaboration and critical funding, provides hands-on learning experiences to students, preparing them for careers in high-demand fields such as semiconductor manufacturing. First Lady Jill Biden, Ph.D., and United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona attended the grand opening, to showcase the innovation and potential effect behind the investment.
“The Mechatronics Lab exemplifies the power of collaboration between industry and education,” said Sarah Lee, CEO of Think Dutchess Alliance for Business. “It serves as a testament to what can be achieved when stakeholders come together with a shared vision for economic growth and workforce development.”
Beyond the Mechatronics Lab, partnerships between industry and education have become a cornerstone of the Dutchess County community. Collaborations such as the one between the Culinary Institute of America and Asahi Shuzo have resulted in the establishment of Dassai Blue, the first Japanese sake brewery on the East Coast. Similarly, onsemi’s partnership with Dutchess Community College and the Dutchess Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) has paved the way for career paths in advanced manufacturing and engineering.
Through it all, a spokeswoman said, Think Dutchess Alliance for Business has played a central role in acting as a vital connector in the community. By forging relationships, building networks and leveraging resources, Think Dutchess continues to drive economic growth and prosperity in Dutchess County.
“We are honored to receive this recognition from Business Facilities,” said Lee. “This award exemplifies the dedication and collaboration of our partners, who share our commitment to building a vibrant and sustainable economy in Dutchess County.”
For more, visit www.thinkdutchess.com.
