A Workforce That Works for You
Amherst’s innovation economy is significantly fueled by its exceptional educational assets and highly educated workforce. The University at Buffalo (UB), one of the State University of New York’s flagship institutions, serves as a major economic driver and talent pipeline. UB’s research activities, particularly in engineering, medicine, business, and technology, create numerous opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry.
The University’s Presence Generates Several Key Advantages For The Local Business Community:
Talent Pipeline: UB graduates approximately 6,000 students annually, many in STEM fields, business, and professional programs, providing a steady stream of skilled workers for local employers.
Research Collaboration: Companies can partner with university researchers on innovative projects, accessing cutting-edge facilities and expertise in areas like biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials.
Entrepreneurship Support: The university’s incubators and entrepreneurship programs help launch new companies, contributing to the area’s startup ecosystem.
Top Industry And Occupations In Amherst
Top 20 Detailed Industries by Location Quotient, 2023
Top 20 Detailed Occupations by Location Quotient, 2023
World-Class Education & Workforce Development
Through partnerships with local institutions and workforce programs, Amherst ensures that talent meets industry demands. AmherstLeads works with local businesses to develop programs that support business growth AND career advancement.
- Apprenticeship Programs: Hands-on training in advanced manufacturing, technology, and healthcare.
- STEM Education Partnerships: Collaborations with schools to prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
- Custom Training Programs: Support for employers to create company-specific workforce solutions.
Helping Employers Connect With Talent
Through AmherstLeads and our partners, employers can access a range of recruitment, retention, and talent development support services.
- Talent recruitment and job posting platforms
- Job fairs and hiring events
- HR and workforce planning consultations
- Labor market data and workforce trend analysis
Higher Education Excellence
University At Buffalo
The University at Buffalo (UB) stands as one of New York’s flagship research universities and represents the crown jewel of Amherst’s higher education landscape. As one of two flagship institutions of the SUNY system, UB enrolls nearly 33,000 students in 13 schools and colleges making it the largest public university in New York State. Recent investment is expanding the Department of Engineering, creating Empire AI and playing a pivotal role in the Tech Corridor, one of the few Federally designated advanced chip manufacturing corridors keeps UB on the forefront of innovation and talent generation.
Academic Strengths And Programming
- Over 100 undergraduate degrees and nearly 300 graduate and professional program
- Major research university with extensive opportunities for undergraduate research participation
- 100% of UB students can get involved in research, service or experiential learning starting in their first year
- Strong programs in engineering, medicine, business, and liberal arts
- 700+ study abroad options across seven continents
- Popular majors include Business, Psychology, and Communications, with a 74% graduation rate
Daemen University
Daemen University provides a distinctive private university experience in Amherst, known for its personalized approach to education and strong professional programs with an enrollment of approximately 3,000 students. Located on Main Street in Amherst, Daemen offers a more intimate educational environment compared to larger public institutions.
Academic Strengths And Programming
- Health sciences and nursing programs with excellent clinical partnerships
- Business programs with strong ties to regional employers
- Liberal arts and sciences with emphasis on experiential learning
- Graduate programs in education, health professions, and business
- Strong student support services and small class sizes
- Comprehensive athletics program competing at the NCAA Division II level
SUNY Erie Community College
SUNY Erie Community College serves as the region’s primary two-year institution, offering accessible higher education and workforce development programs. The college operates multiple campuses serving approximately 6,000 students throughout Erie County, with significant programming serving Amherst regional residents at its Main Street campus.
Academic Strengths And Programming
- Comprehensive transfer programs with articulation agreements to four-year institutions
- Career and technical education programs aligned with regional workforce needs
- Continuing education and professional development offerings
- Affordable tuition making higher education accessible to diverse populations
- Strong partnerships with local businesses and industries
- Adult learner and non-traditional student support services
Explore Our Success Stories
Healthcare & Medical Spine
Roswell Park Cancer Center Opens $16.4M Outpatient Facility in Amherst
Read Story
