Eastman Cooke and LaGuardia Community College Join forces to Develop Workforce Program
Eastman Cooke and LaGuardia Community College Join forces to Develop Workforce Program
NYC-based construction firm advances program to create pathway to construction-industry careers; continues to sponsor fundraising efforts for school
NEW YORK (September 27, 2021) – Eastman Cooke & Associates (“ECA”), a Manhattan-based, mid-sized construction company, is working with LaGuardia Community College (“LaGuardia”), now in its 50th year, to expand a gateway to careers in the building industry for the school’s Adult & Continuing Education and associates degree students. In addition to collaborating with LaGuardia on relevant curriculums and mentorships, ECA has committed to providing on-the-job experiences.
“Our co-initiative with LaGuardia supports economic equity, while attracting more trained people into the various sectors of the construction industry,” points out Peter Morandi, Chief Executive Officer, LEED AP, Eastman Cooke & Associates. “An integral part of our program will include bringing industry owners, business leaders, and experienced architecture, engineering, and construction professionals into the classroom — and out in the field — for hands-on instruction. The program will additionally focus on arranging mentorship opportunities.”
In addition, ECA will again sponsor the Marc C. Healy Scholarship Fund Golf Outing on October 4, 2021. Now in its eighth year, the Golf Outing is part of the College’s current campaign to raise $15 million for LaGuardia students, many of whom are low-income or come from disadvantaged communities and eager to make better lives for themselves and their families through higher education.
“We are grateful to Eastman Cook for its ongoing support of the College,” says LaGuardia President Kenneth Adams. “Through this new partnership our students will learn about the many career opportunities in the construction industry and how to navigate this dynamic field.”
LaGuardia Community College is known for its workforce development programs, which prepare New York City students for careers in high-demand sectors of the economy, including healthcare, IT, and construction. Students who complete their training obtain industry-recognized credentials and, in some programs, academic credits that may be applied to a LaGuardia degree.
Adds Mr. Morandi, “Today’s construction industry increasingly requires workers with an understanding of technology and jobsite knowledge, which the curriculum will address. Ultimately, we will develop an employment portal where students completing these courses can actively look for job openings. With the right skills, well-trained craft workers will build New York City and beyond!”
Tickets and sponsorship packages are still available for the 8th Annual Marc C. Healy Scholarship Fund Golf Outing. More information may be found at www.laguardia.edu/golffund
Eastman Cooke & Associates is a New York-based, mid-sized general contracting and construction management founded by Peter Morandi, Chief Executive Officer, LEED AP. A leader in sustainability and innovative practices, such as its proprietary Work Smart System, Eastman Cooke projects encompass ground-up construction, renovations, and upgrades. Its diverse project portfolio includes everything from corporate interiors, massive auto dealerships, specialty retail, and non-profit offices, to healthcare facilities, hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, laboratories, and more. Since its inception in 2009, the firm has maintained a credo of strong client relationships, trusting partnerships with consultants, and a commitment to providing unparalleled service.
LaGuardia Community College, located in Long Island City, Queens, educates thousands of New Yorkers annually through degree, certificate, and continuing education programs. Its guiding principle, “Dare to Do More,” reflects its belief in the transformative power of education – not just for individuals but for the community and the country – creating pathways for achievement and safeguarding the middle class. LaGuardia is a national voice on behalf of community colleges, where half of all U.S. college students study. Part of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of its namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his championing of the underserved. Since opening in 1971, LaGuardia’s programs have regularly become national models for pushing boundaries to give people of all backgrounds access to a high quality, affordable college education.
