SUNY offers free tech programs to adult community college students

New York state is expanding educational access with a targeted initiative to provide free community college to working-age adults in high-demand fields. SUNY Reconnect, included in the 2025-26 state budget and set to launch this fall, will eliminate tuition and cover expenses for adults 25-55 who pursue degrees in critical workforce sectors including advanced manufacturing, AI, cybersecurity, and healthcare. This program represents a significant investment in addressing workforce shortages while creating new educational pathways for millions of New Yorkers.

The big picture: New York’s SUNY Reconnect program will offer free community college to adults ages 25 to 55 who enroll in programs targeting high-demand industries.

• The initiative covers not just tuition but also fees, books, and supplies for students pursuing degrees in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, engineering, green energy, nursing, teaching, or technology.
• An estimated four million New Yorkers will be eligible for this program, which will launch for the fall 2025 term.

Why this matters: The program directly addresses workforce shortages in critical sectors by removing financial barriers to education for working adults.

• Students will receive comprehensive financial support, with the state covering remaining costs after existing financial aid is applied.
• The initiative creates accessible pathways for mid-career adults to transition into industries facing talent shortages.

What they’re saying: SUNY Chancellor John King emphasized that the program will “break barriers to a college degree and provide financial support and flexibility for adult students to enroll, and more importantly, to succeed through to graduation.”

• Dr. Brian Durant, Cayuga Community College President, called it “an inspiring plan” that creates avenues for students to “access degrees and training for sought-after careers.”
• Onondaga Community College President Dr. Warren Hilton noted the initiative “promises a bright and prosperous future for central New York.”

Looking ahead: The program will be implemented starting with the fall 2025 academic term, providing a new educational opportunity for working adults throughout New York state.