Jamestown Community College will receive $149,677 for its robotics and engineering programs to help students and workers get jobs in tech fields like mechanical engineering, electronics, computer engineering, and telecommunications engineering.

Specifically, the funding will help purchase state-of-the-art equipment and update curriculum to include the latest technology being used by local employers. At least 10 companies, 35 students, five workers, and 1,150 kindergarten through 12th grade students will be able to use the equipment.

“This vital investment will kick Jamestown Community College’s advanced technology programming into a higher gear, helping prepare students to get and keep the good-paying jobs of the future,” said U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-New York and Senate minority leader. “This federal funding will boost STEM education across Western New York, working to give students access to learning opportunities for skills that will make them competitive in both college and the workplace. I’m proud to announce this well-earned funding, and will always fight to deliver resources that invest in our students, institutions and communities.”

The funding was allocated through the Appalachian Regional Commission, an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 420 counties across the Appalachian region.

“A STEM education is critical to preparing our students to get jobs in a 21st century economy,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York. “I am happy to announce this funding for Jamestown Community College, which will help train students for success in engineering, robotics, and advanced technology. Investing in our students and workers is one of the best ways to strengthen our local workforce, and I will always fight for the resources to help them be successful.”