Assemblyman D. Billy Jones to Lead Clinton Community College's Institute for Advanced Manufacturing

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — Assemblyman D. Billy Jones, whose strong community leadership and steady business advocacy have marked his nearly nine years in the New York legislature, has been named Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Workforce Development at Clinton Community College.

In his new role, Jones will provide leadership and oversight of workforce and community education programs at the college, including operations of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and programs undertaken by the Center for Community and Workforce Development. He will spearhead the development of a new master plan for the IAM, creating the regional hub for workforce development and education it was designed to become, and lead conversations with businesses and employers.

"This is a tremendous moment for the college and its future," said Ken Knelly, acting president of Clinton Community College. "No one is more connected with local organizations and businesses or more passionate about solutions and partnerships that make our region better. The state and the university system are more focused than ever on workforce development. He can help us take advantage of this moment and more solidly place us on the path to financial sustainability and greater service locally."

After graduating high school, Jones ran his family’s dairy farm and worked as a correction officer with the New York State Department of Corrections. He served as mayor of Chateaugay and as an interim county manager and Franklin County legislator, becoming chairman in 2013. He was elected to the New York Assembly in 2016. As an assemblyman, Jones led in areas of economic and workforce development, forging connections with local and state agencies and delivering tens of millions of dollars of local investments to a wide range of community needs.

“I’ve dedicated my entire career to serving the North Country, and this new role allows me to continue that work in a very direct and meaningful way," Jones said. "I’m truly excited to join the team at Clinton Community College and help lead the next chapter for the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and developing other workforce development initiatives. These programs play a vital role in creating opportunities, supporting local employers, and strengthening our communities. I’m honored to take on this position and look forward to building strong partnerships that will drive real results across the region. I want to thank Acting President Knelly and the board of trustees for this amazing opportunity.”

Jones is active with many organizations throughout the North Country, including the Chateaugay Rotary Club, and is a board member of the United Way of the Adirondack Region. He has also served on the North Country Regional Economic Development Council, where he supported numerous projects that helped local businesses grow the area's economy.

Future of the IAM

The Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, a 30,000 square-foot facility dedicated in 2017, was created to be a key component of the region’s economic landscape. Developed by Clinton Community College, with a range of community partners, the IAM’s focus was to align with evolving trends in manufacturing and industry. Its primary functions were twofold: Provide state-of-the-art customized training for the incumbent workforce and provide stackable credentials, certificates, and associate degrees as a pathway for a career in advanced manufacturing.

With the college's full reaccreditation in November 2024, the finalization of moves to the SUNY Plattsburgh and Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital for its programs, and a reversal of downturns in enrollment, Clinton is well positioned to put the IAM on the path to success that was envisioned for it. Moreover, the college intends to partner strongly with businesses and others, including CV-TEC and its successful array of programs, to ensure the facility is operationally active.

The college currently offers mechanical technology, industrial commercial electrician, computer and electronics technology and computer information systems / cybersecurity at the facility. Additionally, the college's Center for Community and Workforce Development will move to the IAM. CCWD offers a range of programs directly and through partnerships, including driver education and third-party vendor collaborations.

Quotes

Devi Momot, Clinton Community College Board of Trustees, chairperson: "We are unlocking the full potential of the IAM through visionary guidance and an unwavering commitment to innovation from our CCC leadership team. A purpose-built facility, this will serve as a regional catalyst for programs that empower learners of all ages — whether full-time, part-time, or in certificate pathways — to drive economic prosperity throughout our community. We are so excited to welcome Billy Jones, who will be leading this new chapter. We extend our deepest gratitude to Clinton County, whose continued sponsorship, trust, and support make this shared vision a reality."

Garry Douglas, North Country Chamber of Commerce, president: "This is an exceptional next mission for Billy Jones. It is crucial that we maximize assets like the IAM in support of our economic present and future and Billy has worked hand in hand with us in support of our area manufacturers, including our growing cluster of transportation equipment companies. He has the knowledge and skills to help build new and important connections and collaborations, and we have already agreed to joint outreach to employers about their training needs starting immediately. Clinton Community College has chosen very well, and we genuinely look forward to working actively with Billy in this very important new role. Onward and upward!"

Mark Henry, Clinton County Legislature, chair: "Clinton County has long recognized the importance of a strong and responsive community college system, and we are proud to support this next chapter in the evolution of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing. With Assemblyman Jones at the helm, we’re confident the IAM will fulfill its original promise as a driver of workforce development and economic opportunity across our region. His deep North Country roots and proven leadership make him the right person to move this vision forward, and we look forward to the continued partnership with the college to ensure this facility thrives.”

Dr. Mark Davey, Champlain Valley Educational Services BOCES, district superintendent: "We congratulate Billy Jones on his appointment as a vice president at Clinton Community College and his new role with the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing. Billy has been a consistent advocate for public education, workforce development, and Career and Technical Education across the North Country. His deep knowledge of our communities, strong relationships, and proven leadership will serve Clinton Community College well. At CVES BOCES, we look forward to exploring opportunities for future collaboration in support of student success and regional workforce development."