In this NYC Workforce Drop Mini Pod, NYCETC CEO Gregory J. Morris shares his remarks from the City & State Economic Development & Workforce Summit, where NYCETC served as a co-sponsor alongside leaders from across the city and state.

Greg underscores why workforce and economic development cannot be treated as separate conversations. He calls out the persistent gaps—gender and racial wage disparities, unemployment inequities, and the lack of strong on-ramps for local talent into major economic projects—while outlining bold solutions for aligning policy, investment, and accountability.

From the urgent need to better serve prime-age workers and public housing residents, to strengthening wraparound supports like childcare and transit, Greg lays out NYCETC’s Workforce Development Agenda as a roadmap for a more equitable, transparent, and opportunity-driven system. He also makes the case for new city structures—such as a deputy mayor for workforce and economic mobility—and a statewide Empire State Workforce Alliance to unite priorities across New York.

With rising costs, stagnant wages, and a pivotal election just weeks away, Greg emphasizes that the stakes could not be higher. But with coordinated action, he argues, New York can stop managing scarcity and start building prosperity—delivering dignity, mobility, and opportunity for every New Yorker.

Listen now to hear why workforce must be at the center of NYC’s economic future.

Published by: New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC)

Produced by: Manhattan Neighborhood Network

Mini episodes of The NYC Workforce Drop deliver high-impact insights in under 15 minutes, perfect for leaders on the go who want clear analysis and bold ideas for NYC’s workforce future.