Mayor Evans brings career opportunities directly to residents with new mobile workforce development shuttle

Rochester, New York – In a bold step toward bridging employment gaps in Rochester, Mayor Malik D. Evans unveiled a brand-new mobile workforce development shuttle that aims to connect residents with job opportunities directly in their neighborhoods. Rolled out by the City’s Department of Recreation and Human Services, the new vehicle is more than just a van — it’s a mobile career center on wheels.

Mayor Evans announced the initiative with strong conviction about the need to bring help where it’s needed most. “This is about showing up and supporting Rochester residents where they are,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “We’re bringing job resources, career support, and opportunities directly to the neighborhoods that need it most. Whether someone is just starting out, changing career paths, or looking for a second chance, we can now come to you because we believe in your future.”

The custom-outfitted shuttle bus is designed to tackle two major obstacles faced by job seekers: transportation and childcare. By bringing career services to people’s doorsteps, the City hopes to eliminate the need for long commutes or missed opportunities due to lack of access. The initiative highlights the City’s push to create more inclusive systems for employment support, especially in underserved communities.

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City Council Vice President LaShay Harris echoed the mayor’s sentiment, underscoring how vital the shuttle could be for many residents. “Workforce development programs are integral to supporting our residents,” said Harris. “This new mobile unit and the staff who operate it will improve access to employment and workforce development resources and opportunities for those with transportation barriers.”

Inside the shuttle, visitors will find a fully functional career center. Equipped with built-in countertops, chairs, a flat-screen TV, overhead storage, charging stations, Wi-Fi, and laptop computers, the space allows users to do everything from writing resumes to searching for open positions. It also offers information about local job fairs, career planning resources, and support for online job applications.

The mobile unit’s presence won’t be limited to just one-off visits. It’s scheduled to appear at several major ROC the Block Employment Fairs throughout the summer:

• June 11 at International Plaza (828 N. Clinton Ave.)
• July 16 at Rochester Public Market (280 N. Union St.)
• August 20 at the Salvation Army (100 West Ave.)
• September 24 at Parcel 5 (285 E. Main St.)

All events will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering prime mid-day access to the public.

In addition to the summer job fairs, the shuttle will be rolling into other local events this May. First up is the Action for a Better Community Celebration at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park on Saturday, May 17, from noon to 4 p.m. Later that month, it will stop by First Genesis Baptist Church (292 Hudson Ave.) on Friday, May 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

These appearances are part of a wider city effort to strengthen the employment landscape by removing obstacles that have historically held back segments of the population. Whether someone has just been laid off or is looking to start their very first job, the mobile workforce shuttle is ready to help.

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Mayor Evans has been vocal about transforming Rochester’s employment support systems to be more proactive and community-centered. Rather than waiting for people to seek out help, the city is taking resources directly to them.

The shuttle will be staffed by trained professionals who are ready to help residents navigate job search engines, improve interview skills, and discover job training opportunities. And because the unit has internet access and laptops, it functions as a digital gateway for those who may not have computers or Wi-Fi at home.

While the vehicle itself is a practical tool, its symbolism runs even deeper. It represents a shift in how city government approaches equity, access, and empowerment. By rolling into neighborhoods that might otherwise be overlooked, Rochester is sending a message that everyone deserves a fair shot at success.

The city hopes this mobile workforce initiative will not only help people land jobs but also foster long-term career growth. As more stops and events are added to the calendar, residents are encouraged to keep an eye out — the opportunity they’ve been waiting for might be pulling up just around the corner.