WATERTOWN, NY — When Micron Technology announced its historic semiconductor manufacturing investment in Central New York, Assemblyman Scott A. Gray (R–Watertown) recognized that Jefferson County was uniquely positioned to benefit—not only through workforce development and education but through housing demand, supply chain growth and broader economic opportunity across the North Country.

Today, that vision is taking shape. Assemblyman Gray announced that Jefferson Community College (JCC) has been awarded $750,000 through the Empire State Development Micron Community Investment Fund to expand workforce training programs in high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing and mechatronics, while strengthening partnerships with Fort Drum, local employers and regional economic development agencies.

“Jefferson County is well-positioned to be a direct beneficiary of Micron’s investment in New York state,” said Assemblyman Gray. “This funding at JCC is an important step, but it’s part of a bigger picture—workforce training, housing and supply chain development all represent real opportunities for the North Country. We need to make sure our region is at the table and ready to compete.”

The Micron Community Investment Fund, administered by Empire State Development, supports workforce development, education, housing and community infrastructure in regions expected to benefit from Micron’s presence in Central New York.

“Jefferson Community College is committed to providing students with the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce,” said Dr. Daniel Dupee, president of JCC. “This funding will allow us to expand programming and deepen partnerships that create meaningful career pathways for our students and residents throughout the region.”

“This is about making sure the North Country doesn’t just watch this economic growth from a distance,” Gray added. “From education to housing to the supply chain, Jefferson County has the foundation to be a real partner in what Micron is building here in New York.”