Harlem Steps Into the Future: IWA FutureReady Launch Kicks Off with Soaring Grounds at 181 West 135th Street, Powering Local Jobs in Energy, Manufacturing & Aviation

Harlem, NYC – August 21, 2025 — The Institute for Workforce Advancement (IWA), with support from the New York Power Authority (NYPA), successfully hosted the NYC launch of its IWA FutureReady Workforce Training Program during the week of August 18 at Soaring Grounds, 181 West 135th Street, Harlem. The historic site—formerly the Jackie Robinson YMCA, built in 1933 and now a New York City Landmark Preservation building—is evolving into a hub for sports, workforce, and supplier development.

The event brought together industry leaders, residents, and community groups to celebrate an initiative preparing more than 200 New Yorkers (from both New York City and Long Island) for high-growth careers in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and drone aviation. Each participant completing the 40-hour in-person training also received a $400 stipend at the conclusion of the weeklong class.

Featured speakers included:

• Darryl Jenkins, Executive Director & Founder | Soaring Grounds
• David Alabi, Board Member & Community Outreach Executive | Soaring Grounds
• Phil Rugile, Executive Director | Institute for Workforce Advancement (IWA)
• Sandra Bleckman, Director, Workforce Development | New York Power Authority
• Tenicka Chaney, Senior Director | Sports Power Infrastructure & Athletes Make The Best
• Liz Gallo, CEO | WhyMaker
• Dwayne Wilkins, Senior Director, Economic Development | LocalContent.com
• Eduardo Escamilla, Certified Drone Operator & Instructor | Drone Cadets

Attendees participated in a program and facility tour, as well as networking sessions that highlighted immersive training and community-focused opportunities at Soaring Grounds.

The launch marked the completion of the program’s first 40-hour training cohort, providing Harlem residents with paid, hands-on experience in clean energy, aviation, and manufacturing.

The IWA FutureReady Program will return in early 2026 for another training session. Meanwhile, Soaring Grounds is planning expanded initiatives , including:

Youth & Teen Programs: Summer and holiday camps introducing future careers.

Adult Pathways: Workforce and supplier readiness training to connect residents and businesses with opportunities in energy, manufacturing, construction, technology, and maritime.

Sports & Health Programs: Expanding Soaring Grounds’ recreation and wellness offerings.

These efforts build on Soaring Grounds’ longstanding track record of programs across Harlem, including at P.S. 133 Fred R. Moore, Bethel Gospel Assembly, and Salem United Methodist Church. This network of trusted community anchors strengthens Soaring Grounds’ ability to combine education, athletics, and workforce readiness.

The 16,000 sq. ft. flagship facility features a gymnasium, indoor track, pool, exhibition space, classrooms, offices, and flexible event space.

“Soaring Grounds was built to elevate voices and opportunities,” said Darryl Jenkins, Executive Director of Soaring Grounds. “The FutureReady launch showed the power of bringing workforce, business, and sports under one roof to build confidence and opportunity.”

Soaring Grounds is now accepting Requests for Information (RFI) from organizations interested in becoming program, event, or funding partners. Current opportunities include:

• School-age afterschool providers
• Aquatic program operators
• Workforce service organizations
• Construction & infrastructure safety training with the SPIN Foundation

The vision is for Soaring Grounds at 181 West 135th Street to serve as Harlem’s hub for sports, business, workforce development, and community engagement.

Contact: darryl@soaringground.org

‍