Ulster BOCES

The Council of Industry (COI) has announced its 2026 Manufacturing Champions, and we are proud to share that Ulster BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Jonah Schenker is among this year’s honorees.

Celebrated annually, COI Manufacturing Champions are individuals or organizations who, through vision, dedication, and sustained involvement, advance the region’s manufacturing sector. Honorees build businesses, develop talent, create innovative programs, and forge partnerships that strengthen the regional economy.

This recognition highlights Dr. Schenker’s ongoing commitment to strengthening career and technical education and building meaningful pathways between education and the regional manufacturing workforce. His leadership is expanding opportunities for students while supporting long-term economic growth across the Hudson Valley.

“I am humbled by this honor, which reflects what’s possible when education and industry work in true partnership. The Council of Industry has been a critical partner in helping align learning with the needs of our regional economy.

Together, we are creating experiences where students can explore their interests, build confidence, and see themselves as contributors to something bigger than themselves. This work isn’t just about preparing students for jobs—it’s about helping them discover their passions and find their place in the future of our community.”

Dr. Schenker has served as District Superintendent of Ulster BOCES since March 2023 and has been part of the organization since 2010, holding a range of instructional and leadership roles, including founding principal of the Hudson Valley Pathways Academy.

Most recently, he led the expansion of the Career & Technical Center into its new home at the Career Academies at iPark 87—a project recognized as a state and national model for advanced manufacturing education. This work included securing strong support from component districts, families, and regional leaders, as well as a $1 million grant from the Gene Haas Foundation.

To address regional workforce needs, Dr. Schenker has aligned programming with industry demand through direct collaboration with business leaders—expanding facilities and creating new pathways that prepare students for high-skill, high-demand careers.

His impact is reflected in the growth of student internships and the strengthening of the local workforce pipeline.
Dr. Schenker joins fellow honorees Ben Katzenstein (Star Kay White, Inc.), Cedric Glasper (Mechanical Rubber), and The Gene Haas Foundation.

Congratulations to Dr. Schenker and all of this year’s Manufacturing Champions on this well-deserved recognition.