Counties covered: Broome, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, Tioga, and Tompkins
Kate Oja serves as the Regional Director for Central New York, overseeing Syracuse, Utica, Binghamton, and the surrounding communities. She is based in Syracuse.
She has an extensive portfolio of experience in workforce, economic, and business development, as well as higher education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. She is skilled in grant writing, program management, non-profit administration, and community engagement.
Prior to WDI, she was the Associate Director for the ERIE21 program at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, where she led non-traditional, adult learners into the workforce by offering training opportunities focused in the tech industry.
An active community engager and learner, Kate sits on the executive board of the University Neighborhood Preservation Association (UNPA) in Syracuse, where she serves as the Vice President. She also volunteers her time at her children’s schools and is regularly asked to judge start-up business pitch competitions.
As a transplant to the region, Kate believes Central New York has much to offer, and she has both passion and experience working with underserved populations, including the BIPOC communities, veterans, and women.
Kate has a BA in English Literature and Art History from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. She also holds a Skilling America certification from NYATEP.
Contact Kate by visiting Regional Office information here.