NEW YORK, NY, June 26, 2025 —The New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC), representing more than 220 workforce development and training providers, today announced the election of a new slate of Board Officers who will guide the organization’s governance and strategic direction. Together, they will help advance NYCETC’s mission to expand access to quality jobs and economic mobility for all New Yorkers.

The newly elected leadership includes:

Co-Chairs

• Leslie Abbey, Chief Executive Officer, Hot Bread Kitchen
• Christopher Watler, Executive Vice President, Center for Employment Opportunities

Co-Vice Chairs

• Kalilah Moon, Executive Director, Drive Change
• Debbie Roman, Managing Director, Per Scholas

Treasurer

• Valerie Payne, Executive Director, Rebuilding Together NYC

Secretary

• Paula Bailey, Executive Vice President, Grant Associates

At-Large Members

• Darren Bloch, CEO & Executive Director, Greenwich House
• Ayesha George, Executive Director, STRIVE New York
• Kilsys Payamps-Roure, Executive Director, Braven
• Aaron Shiffman, Executive Director, Brooklyn Workforce Innovations

“The strength of NYCETC has always been its people: Those on the ground delivering services, advocating for equity, and building pathways to economic mobility in every borough. With this new slate of Board Officers, we’re doubling down on our commitment to a more just and inclusive workforce system that meets the moment,” said Gregory J. Morris, CEO of the New York City Employment and Training Coalition. “These leaders bring deep expertise along with a fierce dedication to dismantling systemic barriers and ensuring that all New Yorkers—especially those long excluded from opportunity—can access quality jobs and real economic mobility. This moment demands a bold, united front: one that listens to communities, holds systems accountable, and drives innovation across sectors. I’m confident that this team will help steer NYCETC through a period of transformative growth, ensuring New Yorkers are actively helping to define the future of work, lead it, and thrive in it.”

“Workforce development has the power to transform lives—especially when equity is at the center. At Hot Bread Kitchen, we work with individuals who bring incredible skill and drive but are too often overlooked by traditional systems,” said Leslie Abbey, Chief Executive Officer of Hot Bread Kitchen. “Every day, I see both the gaps and the possibilities. I see what’s possible when someone gains access to the right training, a supportive network, and a clear path forward. That’s the kind of impact NYCETC can help scale across the city. I’m honored to serve as Co-Chair at a time when we’re not just talking about inclusion—we’re building it together.”  

“For too long, too many New Yorkers, especially those impacted by the justice system, have been shut out of economic opportunity. These barriers aren’t accidental; they’re the result of policies and practices that have ignored, excluded, and criminalized entire communities,” said Christopher Watler, Executive Vice President, Center for Employment Opportunities. “NYCETC is uniquely positioned to challenge that status quo by bringing together the voices of providers, advocates, and directly impacted people. As Co-Chair, I’m committed to helping build a workforce system rooted in dignity, equity, and accountability; one that doesn’t just offer second chances, but ensures those chances are real, lasting, and backed by the support people need to thrive.”

“Technology is reshaping our workforce in real time. To keep pace, we have to move faster, think bigger, and be intentional about designing programs that connect underestimated talent with real, lasting career pathways,” said Debbie Roman, Managing Director, Per Scholas. “That means building stronger employer partnerships, embedding equity into how we define readiness, and staying agile as the economy evolves. I’m excited to serve as Co-Vice Chair and to help ensure NYCETC continues to lead with innovation, inclusion, and impact.”

“At Drive Change, we walk alongside young people who’ve been impacted by the legal system. Many of the youth we serve have never been given the benefit of the doubt, let alone a chance to succeed in the workforce,” said Kalilah Moon, Executive Director of Drive Change. “We know their potential, because we see it every day. Serving on NYCETC’s Board is an incredible opportunity to ensure that the experiences and ideas of impacted youth are reflected in how we shape the future of workforce development together. If we’re serious about equity, we have to start by listening to those who are closest to the barriers.”

“Trust is built when our work reflects the realities of the communities we serve. NYCETC brings together organizations that are deeply rooted in neighborhoods across the city, groups that understand the challenges New Yorkers face because they’re walking alongside them every day. That kind of connection is powerful,” said Valerie Payne, Executive Director, Rebuilding Together NYC. “As Treasurer, I’m proud to help support a coalition that listens closely, leads with equity, and pushes for a workforce system that meets people where they are and helps them move forward.”

“The challenges our jobseekers face, like housing instability, digital barriers, and childcare gaps, are deeply complex. But our commitment as providers must remain clear: show up, listen, and deliver programs that meet people where they are,” said Paula Bailey, Executive Vice President, Grant Associates. “I’m proud to step into this role and support NYCETC’s work amplifying the voices of frontline organizations. Together, we can ensure that every neighborhood has equitable access to the resources, training, and connections that lead to lasting economic mobility.”

“In a city as vast and vibrant as New York, workforce development can’t live in silos. The challenges New Yorkers face and the opportunities we must create cut across sectors, neighborhoods, and systems. From the arts to our caring economy, to the trades and our tech talent pipelines, the future of work is increasingly interdisciplinary,” said Darren Bloch, CEO & Executive Director, Greenwich House. “It’s an honor to be reappointed to the NYCETC board as we work to expand our workforce systems to find success for individuals, communities and our City’s future, all at once.”

“At STRIVE, we are deeply committed to ensuring that all New Yorkers—particularly those who have been historically marginalized—have access to gainful employment and economic opportunity,” said Ayesha George, Executive Director of STRIVE New York. “Every day, we support individuals who are motivated and ready to work but are forced to navigate systems that were not built for them—or worse, built to exclude them. My appointment to the NYCETC Board and now its Executive Committee provides a meaningful opportunity to influence workforce policies, amplify the needs of our communities, and help build systems that are equitable, accountable, and truly designed to work for all.”

“Workforce providers have boots on the ground. We see firsthand what’s working, what’s falling short, and what needs to fundamentally change. We’re not removed from the realities facing jobseekers; we’re in the room with them every day. That perspective matters,” said Aaron Shiffman, Executive Director, Brooklyn Workforce Innovations. “I’m proud to serve on a Board that doesn’t shy away from the hard conversations and is committed to fighting for real, practical solutions that deliver results for the people who need them most.”

NYCETC also extends sincere thanks to Jennifer Mitchell, President & CEO at The Doe Fund, for her service as Interim Chair. A longtime member of the Executive Committee, Jennifer provided steady leadership during a key moment of transition and helped position the Coalition for continued growth and impact.

“Serving on the Executive Committee for a decade and, more recently, as Interim Chair for the past two years has been an honor. What makes NYCETC special is the strength of its community, leaders who bring heart, grit, and deep commitment to building a more equitable workforce system for New York City,” said Jennifer Mitchell, President & CEO, The Doe Fund. “I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done together and excited to partner with the new Executive Committee on what’s ahead.”

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About the New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC)

As the largest city-based workforce development association in the country, the New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC) supports the workforce and economic development community to ensure that every New Yorker has access to the skills, training, and education needed to thrive in the local economy; and that every business is able to maintain a highly skilled workforce. Currently, more than 200 organizations are members of the NYCETC. These organizations are responsible for serving the needs of 200,000+ New Yorkers seeking access to education and employment opportunities each year. The primary recipients of services are women, young adults, public housing residents, justice-impacted individuals, and immigrants.

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Press Contact

For more information, please contact Emily Kaufold at emily@hayesinitiative.com.

NEW YORK, NY – June 3, 2025 –  The New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC), in partnership with Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW) and with generous support from The Pinkerton Foundation, The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Ira W. DeCamp Foundation, and Deutsche Bank, is midway through the 2025 Workforce Benchmarking Network (WBN NYC) cohort—deepening a field-wide commitment to accountability, performance, and systemic equity across New York City’s workforce development ecosystem.

Now in its second cohort, the WBN NYC initiative is a foundational component of NYCETC’s broader Workforce Development Agenda and a renewed effort in the city to convene and train providers around shared performance metrics, peer learning, and data-driven decision-making. WBN NYC helps providers move beyond compliance and toward continuous improvement, equity, and stronger labor market outcomes​. 

“Workforce accountability is about transparency, collaboration, and an honest look at how we serve New Yorkers,” said Gregory J. Morris, CEO of NYCETC.”Benchmarking is how we build trust with job seekers, funders, and employers. It’s how we show what works, push each other to grow, and ensure that more New Yorkers move into stable, good-paying jobs. This effort is key in building a smarter, fairer workforce system that delivers real results.”

Launched in late 2024, the 2025 WBN NYC cohort brings together 16 organizations—ranging from local nonprofits to national workforce intermediaries—for monthly learning forums, performance tracking, and field-wide data collection. Metrics extend beyond basic job placement, encompassing retention, wage progression, and access to benefits such as employer-sponsored health insurance. With more than 100 workforce professionals engaged across two cohorts, NYCETC is laying the foundation for citywide performance alignment and shared accountability.

This work is especially urgent in light of NYCETC’s recent report, Putting Our Dollars to Work, which revealed that only 16% of the city’s $640M in workforce funding reaches prime-age adults, despite this group making up the majority of NYC’s underemployed workforce​. Benchmarking becomes a tool to identify imbalances, bringing visibility to who is served, how outcomes differ, and where policy and funding need to shift to support inclusive economic growth.

The initiative also reflects NYCETC’s commitment to data-driven decision-making as a cornerstone of its agenda. The Workforce Development Agenda calls for benchmarking not only to optimize provider impact but to drive broader systems change, including expanding employer engagement, aligning training with labor market demand, and embedding workforce strategy into every major economic investment.

Participating organizations meet monthly for structured learning forums facilitated by the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce to explore how to define and measure success beyond contractual obligations. The first WBN NYC pilot launched in April 2024, and with the second cohort now underway, workforce practitioners from 25 organizations are on track to participate in benchmarking activities by the end of the year. The initiative promotes cross-cohort collaboration to enhance knowledge sharing and sector-wide learning.

Organizations participating in the 2025 cohort include: All Star Code, Brooklyn Navy Yard, Commonpoint, Drive Change, East Side Settlement House, Genspace, Grace Institute, Greenwich House, Hope Program, Jericho Project, Manhattan EOC, Osborne Association, Phipps Neighborhoods, Red Hook Initiative, Solar One, and Upwardly Global.

“At The Doe Fund, accountability isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people,” said Jennifer Mitchell, CEO and President at The Doe Fund. “Tracking outcomes like employment and long-term stability helps us make sure our programs truly change lives. Sector-wide benchmarking strengthens our ability to learn from one another and stay focused on what matters most: helping New Yorkers build lasting futures.”

“We serve New Yorkers who face systemic barriers to employment. Without strong, consistent data, it’s impossible to know whether our interventions are closing opportunity gaps or unintentionally reinforcing them,” said David Garza, President & CEO at Henry Street Settlement. “Sector-wide benchmarking gives us the information we need to refine programs, strengthen partnerships, and fight for equitable workforce outcomes citywide.”

“For refugees, asylees, and survivors of trafficking, employment offers dignity and a new beginning. But the workforce system must prove it’s delivering real opportunities, not just initial placements,” said Dr. Kira O’Brien, Interim Executive Director at Emma’s Torch. “We support efforts that prioritize transparency, long-term outcomes, and the kind of rigorous data that drives continuous improvement and holds us all to a higher standard.”

“This partnership reflects a deeper commitment to measuring what truly matters—not just graduation rates, but wage growth, career stability, and long-term economic security for women. It’s not simply about placing someone in a job; it’s about building pathways to lasting, meaningful careers,” said Andrew De Silva, Director of Recruitment and Retention at Grace Institute. “Grace’s journey in this year’s WBN cohort is a powerful signal that our collective efforts as workforce providers are making a real difference. It’s inspiring to witness the growing collaboration across organizations, and my colleagues and I are energized by the opportunity to keep learning and evolving to better serve women of New York City.”

“For internationally educated immigrant and refugee professionals, systemic barriers often preclude them from the U.S. workforce,” said Lourena Gboeah, MSW, Program Director, New York at Upwardly Global. “This initiative is enabling us to go beyond anecdotal success and demonstrate, through hard data, how quickly our participants re-enter their industries and how their incomes grow over time. This strengthens our programming along with our ability to shape employer practices and public policy.”

“Success for our students means stable employment, wage growth, and a clear path to upward mobility. By participating in this data-driven effort, we’re building robust strategies for tracking how our programs translate into career outcomes, rather than just classroom achievements,” said Carmel Urbaez, Director of Operations at Manhattan EOC and Anthony Watson, Executive Director at Manhattan EOC. “This transparency will allow us to adjust in real time and keep pace with the changing needs of adult learners in New York City. The team has expressed how powerful it is to have dedicated time as a cross-functional team to ask questions, design, and implement strategies to support some of New York City’s most vulnerable adult job seekers on their path to sustainable careers.”

“At Drive Change, we believe data isn’t just about measurement, it’s about momentum. Our Fellows deserve more than a foot in the door; they deserve lasting opportunities to lead,” said Nicholas Matthew Stanton, Chief Program Officer at Drive Change. “When we track progress with care and consistency, we are able to advocate boldly and design systems that truly reflect the potential of justice-involved young people in the food and hospitality industry and beyond.” 

“Career pathways in biotech are notoriously non-linear and access to the field remains limited to those with awareness, resources, and a sense of belonging,” said Casey Lardner, PhD, Executive Director at Genspace. “By refining how we measure participant outcomes, we are clarifying for trainees and prospective employers alike what success in the life sciences looks like, and how it can emerge from a wide variety of backgrounds. Data is central to how we ensure our programs are opening doors and growing the next generation of diverse STEM professionals.”

“Individuals impacted by the criminal legal system need more than just job referrals to secure employment; they require clear career pathways that ensure lasting stability and security, which ultimately benefits their communities, said Carler Dinnold, Senior Director, Workforce Development at The Fortune Society. “Analyzing data on wage growth, job retention, and professional and personal advancement provides insight into whether we are fulfilling that promise. Creating sector-wide standards establishes a framework for measuring success and advocating for the systemic changes our participants deserve.”

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About New York City Employment and Training Coalition

As the largest city-based workforce development association in the country, the New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC) supports the workforce and economic development community to ensure that every New Yorker has access to the skills, training and education needed to thrive in the local economy; and that every business can maintain a highly skilled workforce. Throughout its history, NYCETC has sought to increase the availability of and access to investments and supports that position underserved New Yorkers — primarily New Yorkers of color, New Yorkers with low- or moderate incomes, New Yorkers with multiple barriers to employment, and New Yorkers who have been left out of the growing economy due to systemic and historic marginalization – for success in the workforce. Currently, more than 220  organizations are members of the NYCETC. These organizations are responsible for serving the needs of 200,000+ New Yorkers seeking access to education and employment opportunities each year. The primary recipients of services are women, young adults (aged 18-24), public housing residents, individuals impacted by the justice system, and immigrants. 

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Press Contact

For more information, please contact Emily Kaufold at emily@hayesinitiative.com or (203) 295-5783.