Statement on Labor Demonstration on Campus

February 28, 2025

Hudson Valley Community College plans to build the Applied Technology Education Center (ATEC), a new workforce training center designed to help address the skilled trades labor shortage.

We are aware of an organized demonstration planned by outside groups opposed to certain contractors approved to work on ATEC. While we respect their right to assemble, it is important for our community to know that the college has followed all required procurement procedures for the project and ensured a transparent and inclusive process open to both union and non-union contractors.

In accordance with New York State law, public community colleges are required to award contracts to the lowest qualified bidder, regardless of union affiliation, following a public request for proposals. Hudson Valley complies with this mandate, as well as with the Prevailing Wage and Wicks Law provisions, which ensure fair pay and competitive bidding on construction projects.

In response to our request for project bids, there was significant interest, and contracts were awarded to both union and non-union firms. Many of the non-union contractors have engaged unionized subcontractors to perform portions of the work, and the college is working closely with its construction manager to maximize local labor involvement wherever possible.

The college remains committed to working collaboratively to ensure the success of the ATEC project.