New RTMA leader highlights apprenticeships, education and industry growth

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Rich Turner is optimistic about the future of manufacturing across Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, pointing to a growing pipeline of companies, expanding operations and increasing workforce opportunities as signs the sector is poised for long-term growth. 

“Manufacturing is alive and well in the region,” said Turner, executive director of the Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association. He expects the industry to continue expanding over the next decade, fueled by investments from companies such as Micron Technology and fairlife, along with continued growth from local manufacturers including McAlpin Industries and Optimax. 

Turner became co-executive director of the RTMA in January and assumed full leadership responsibilities following the retirement of former executive director Bob Coyne on April 1. Prior to taking the top role, Turner served as the organization’s director of workforce development. 

Over the last several years, the RTMA expanded its role in strengthening the region’s advanced manufacturing talent pipeline. That work included launching the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program in partnership with Monroe Community College, connecting high school juniors and seniors with paid co-ops and job-shadowing opportunities. 

The association also created ROC With Your Hands in 2022, a career exploration event introducing students to careers in advanced manufacturing, skilled trades, automotive technology and heavy equipment.  

Last year’s event at the Rochester Community Sports Complex attracted more than 1,500 students and educators representing more than 50 schools throughout Rochester, Monroe County and the Finger Lakes region. 

In addition, the RTMA has helped establish regional pre-apprenticeship and boot camp programs that provide participants with hands-on experience using modern automated maintenance technologies. 

Since joining the RTMA in 2021, Turner has expanded the organization’s regional sponsorship of the New York State Registered Apprenticeship Program to more than 40 signatory companies, supporting more than 250 registered apprentices. His efforts have also helped secure nearly $3 million in tuition assistance, tool grants, incentives and scholarships for apprentices and participating employers. 

Before joining the RTMA, Turner spent more than a decade in local government, including nearly five years as Monroe County’s workforce development manager. He is a graduate of St. John Fisher University, Leadership Rochester and the Monroe County Leadership Academy. 

Wendy Smith, RTMA board president and senior director of operations at Re:Build Optimation in Rush, said Turner is the right person to lead the association as it continues executing its five-year growth strategy.  

She noted that Turner “rose to the top” after an extensive search that included internal and external candidates.  

“His understanding of the history of the RTMA and familiarity with the current strategy were helpful, but his passion for the organization and the community is what really showed through,” Smith said, adding Turner presented a well thought out vision for the RTMA’s future. “We are very excited for the future of the RTMA under his leadership.” 

Founded in 1945, the RTMA supports more than 150 member companies across Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes region through workforce development, education and industry partnerships spanning manufacturing, academia and government. 

Though the organization operates with a staff of six, Turner described the RTMA as small but mighty, with a continued emphasis on preparing the next generation of skilled workers. 

One example is the RTMA’s Real Life Rosies initiative, which helps expand opportunities for women in advanced manufacturing through no-cost pre-apprenticeship training that combines technical instruction with career-readiness development. 

Turner believes perceptions surrounding manufacturing careers have shifted in recent years, with more students and families recognizing that a traditional four-year college path is not the best fit for everyone. 

For individuals with a strong work ethic, basic math skills and an interest in hands-on work, he said manufacturing can provide stable, high-paying career opportunities without the burden of significant student debt. 

“Manufacturing is not a job; it’s a career,” Turner said. “You can save a lot of money, and you have the potential to make a lot of money.” 

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