by John Corr, Owner of Trans Tech Bus, a school bus manufacturer in Warwick, NY
As one of the Owners of Trans Tech Bus, New York’s only school bus manufacturer, I am acutely aware of the challenges facing employers in our state, particularly in recruiting and retaining skilled workers. The ongoing labor shortage, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has made it increasingly difficult for businesses to fill essential positions and meet the demands of our economy. That is why I am urging Governor Hochul to support the $500 Work Opportunity Tax Credit included in the legislature’s budget proposal.
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a valuable tool that will provide much-needed relief to employers like us as we navigate the complexities of the current job market. This tax credit, which mirrors the highly successful federal WOTC benefit, offers financial incentives to businesses that hire individuals from targeted groups facing significant barriers to employment, including veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those receiving government assistance. By offering a financial incentive to employers, the WOTC encourages businesses to hire from these underrepresented demographics, thereby expanding opportunities for all New Yorkers to participate in the workforce.
For Trans Tech Bus, the WOTC represents an opportunity to invest in our community while addressing our workforce needs. As a manufacturer of school buses, we rely on skilled employees to design, manufacture, and maintain our vehicles to the highest safety standards. However, like many businesses across the state, we have faced challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified workers, particularly in specialized roles such as welding and manufacturing.
The WOTC will enable us to attract new talent and invest in the training and development of our workforce, ensuring that we can continue to meet the needs of our customers and uphold our commitment to safety and quality. By providing financial support to offset the costs of recruitment and training, the WOTC will make it easier for us to compete for skilled workers in a competitive job market, ultimately strengthening our business and growing New York’s economy.
Moreover, the WOTC has the potential to make a meaningful impact on targeted employee demographics, including veterans and individuals with disabilities, who may face additional barriers to employment. By offering financial incentives to employers who hire from these groups, the WOTC encourages businesses to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices, creating opportunities for individuals who may otherwise struggle to find meaningful employment.
At its core, the WOTC is not just about supporting businesses; it is about supporting individuals and families across New York State. By helping targeted employee demographics return to the workforce, the WOTC enables individuals to better support themselves and their families, improving their financial stability and quality of life. Additionally, by expanding access to employment opportunities, the WOTC contributes to New York’s economic recovery, driving growth and prosperity for all.
In conclusion, I urge Governor Hochul to support the $500 Work Opportunity Tax Credit included in the legislature’s budget proposal. I would also like to recognize Senator Skoufis for his leadership and vision in championing this effort. By providing financial incentives to employers to hire from targeted employee demographics, the WOTC will assist businesses in recruiting, training, and retaining employees in a challenging job market, while also helping individuals and families across New York State achieve economic stability and success.
Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive workforce and drive New York’s economic recovery forward.
