Archive: Business & Technology

Tompkins County Area Development (TCAD), the economic development group for Ithaca, N.Y., and the surrounding county, has named Kathy May its first director of workforce services. The organization, which works to grow, retain and attract companies that provide high-quality employment opportunities in the region, announced that May will be actively involved in developing workforce training programs and encouraging collaboration with higher education institutions. She will also identify workforce trends and convey industry data for communities in and around Ithaca.

May, formerly of the Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University, has over 20 years of experience in administrative management and leadership roles, plus a background in personal and professional coaching for individuals and corporate teams. A graduate of Cornell University (bachelor's degree in Industrial and Labor Relations), she also completed coach training through the Coaches Training Institute.

"By creating this position and hiring Kathy May, an experienced and versatile professional, TCAD will strengthen its direct services to area businesses and local leadership," said Heather McDaniel, president of TCAD. "This is a county of 100,000-plus residents, with a wealth of different employers. May will interface with many of them – developing strategies that allow for ongoing economic prosperity."

In the new role, May will visit with key sector employers, gather workforce data and intelligence, and identify and deliver workforce assistance. She will be responsible for collaborating with employers, education institutions, local government, state agencies and workforce agencies – including the Tompkins County Workforce Development Board – to advance various strategies.

"I look forward to joining an experienced team of dedicated professionals who are leading the way in creating economic sustainability for our community and upstate New York," said May. "TCAD is perfectly positioned to leverage the unique natural and manmade resources of Tompkins County to attract, retain and nurture the human capital needed to maximize opportunities for all stakeholders."

TCAD recently reported $86.7 million in capital investment projects for 2019. The organization's strategic partnership with area businesses led to the retention of 159 jobs, plus 54 projected new jobs. As such, May will spearhead various economic initiatives to sustain the county's economic growth and job creation.

Prior to joining TCAD, May served as the on-the-job training grant coordinator for the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, where she was responsible for creating training outlines for newly hired employees and those being considered for promotion. She managed various grant requirements, resulting in approved state audits and an increase in grant funding.

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