Governor Hochul officially begins statewide initiative offering free community college education for adults pursuing high-demand careers in New York

New York – Governor Hochul Unveils Free Community College Program to Train Adult Learners for High-Demand Careers Across New York

By Staff Writer

In a bold step aimed at reshaping the educational and economic future of New York State, Governor Kathy Hochul has officially launched a statewide program that will provide free community college education for adult learners. The initiative, which begins this fall, is designed to make higher education accessible to New Yorkers between the ages of 25 and 55 who are pursuing associate degrees in fields where skilled workers are in short supply.

The plan, introduced as part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State agenda, is one of the most sweeping educational affordability efforts in the nation and reflects her broader push to lower costs for New Yorkers while preparing the state’s workforce for tomorrow’s economy.

“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers — that’s why we’re opening the doors of opportunity at SUNY and CUNY so that students can achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said during the program’s launch. “I’m fighting to make education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program will continue to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”

This free community college program is an expansion of the successful CUNY Reconnect initiative launched in 2022 and now includes SUNY campuses as well. The program is open to working-age adults who do not currently hold a college degree or credential, a group that numbers around four million across the state. It promises to cover not only tuition but also fees, books, and necessary supplies—after other applicable financial aid has been applied.

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More than just free tuition, the initiative also builds in robust student support. Funding has been allocated to help SUNY and CUNY campuses provide wraparound services such as academic advising, career counseling, and student success coaching—resources aimed at improving retention and completion rates among adult learners.

Training for Tomorrow’s Jobs

The program is laser-focused on preparing students for careers in industries critical to New York’s future. As the state cements its role as a leader in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and healthcare, demand for educated workers in these sectors is rapidly rising.

Eligible students may pursue degrees in areas such as:

• Advanced manufacturing
• Artificial intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Engineering
• Technology
• Nursing and allied health
• Green and renewable energy
• Education pathways for teaching in shortage areas

These fields were chosen based on labor market data and employer input, ensuring that graduates will be equipped with skills that directly match hiring needs in both the public and private sectors.

“The Governor’s free community college initiative will help empower eligible New Yorkers to achieve their full potential and move our state economy forward,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “By implementing SUNY Reconnect, campuses throughout New York have already seen promising interest and enthusiasm from adult learner students ready to seize this opportunity.”

“Talent is abundant across our city—but access to opportunity must be intentional and inclusive,” added CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. “I’m grateful to Gov. Hochul and the state legislature for addressing this challenge by removing financial barriers for eligible adults to earn associate degrees in high-demand fields at CUNY’s community colleges.”

A Lifeline for Adult Learners

For many New Yorkers, life circumstances have made college either a distant memory or an impossible goal. Whether due to financial hardship, family responsibilities, or career detours, the dream of earning a degree often fades with time. But this new program seeks to bring that dream back into reach—especially for those looking to transition into more stable and better-paying careers.

State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky, a long-time advocate for public education, praised the initiative’s broad reach and flexibility. “Everyone’s educational journey is different. Sometimes the path has hurdles and challenges. This initiative will enable students between the ages of 25 to 55 to complete their journey. It also expands workforce development in high demand fields. As a result, everyone benefits.”

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In particular, the program is expected to benefit parents, mid-career workers seeking a pivot, and individuals who left college years ago without completing a degree. Outreach efforts this summer will focus on helping these individuals understand their options and enroll in eligible programs.

Building the Workforce of the Future

Economic development experts have long emphasized the role of education in creating sustainable growth. By focusing on high-demand fields, Governor Hochul’s plan addresses a persistent gap between available jobs and qualified workers. With major investments being made in semiconductor manufacturing, green energy, and AI-based industries across the state, the need for trained professionals has never been more urgent.

“SUNY Reconnect is a creative way to promote economic development while empowering more New Yorkers to pursue careers in fields with plenty of stable, good-paying jobs,” said State Senator Sean Ryan. “This program builds on our public universities’ history of helping build New York’s middle class and will create the highly skilled workforce needed to position New York as a leader in emerging industries.”

Assemblymember Al Stirpe emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative: “Developing a workforce in these high demand fields is an essential part of the equation when it comes to driving New York’s advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industries forward. By providing sweeping supports for adult students, this program has the potential to change lives.”

From Promise to Progress

While the initial rollout is focused on the fall 2024 semester for CUNY and fall 2025 for SUNY, the infrastructure is already being built. Community colleges are preparing informational sessions and public outreach efforts across the state to ensure eligible students understand how to apply and what benefits they can expect.

The broader vision, officials say, is to foster long-term economic mobility by giving more New Yorkers a shot at stable, rewarding careers—especially in fast-evolving sectors that increasingly require specialized skills.

Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said the program is not only about personal advancement but about economic justice. “For far too long, the cost of higher education has blocked working-class New Yorkers from reaching their full potential. That is why the free SUNY and CUNY community college program is so transformative. It will not only prepare New Yorkers for high-demand careers but also attract new employers and fuel economic growth across the state.”

Her colleague, Assemblymember Chantel Jackson, echoed that sentiment. “This is a game-changer for New Yorkers who thought higher education was out of reach. By removing financial barriers and investing in our adult learners, Governor Hochul is helping to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce.”

Investing in New York’s Future

Support for the program extends beyond the state legislature. New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz, who chairs the Council’s Committee on Higher Education, called the effort a much-needed course correction for higher education funding in the U.S.

“While our federal government continues to divest from the people and institutions that make our country thrive, Governor Hochul is showing what real leadership looks like—making smart, meaningful investments in New York’s future,” he said.

The expanded Reconnect program, with its no-cost education and comprehensive student support, signals a shift in how the state views both adult learners and the future of its economy. For many, it will be the beginning of a new chapter—one that promises opportunity, stability, and a path forward.

And for Governor Hochul, it’s another step in her mission to make New York a state where hard work is rewarded, doors are opened, and no dream is out of reach because of cost.