New York (WRGB) — New Yorkers looking to build careers in state government will soon have a chance to apply for the Empire State Fellows Program, a full-time, two-year leadership training program aimed at preparing future policymakers.
Gov. Hochul announced that applications will be accepted starting April 1 for the 2027-2029 class. The application period closes June 1, 2026. The incoming class will serve from January 2027 to January 2029.
Hochul said,
The Empire State Fellows Program has brought noteworthy talent and the brightest minds to serve New Yorkers as future leaders in government service. If you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of others, I encourage you to apply to this prestigious program. Here in New York, we respect and value public servants. If you are ready to begin a path toward making a positive impact through leadership in government, then this is the program for you.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said in a statement,
We’re closing the gap at lightning speed because New Yorkers need real relief from Kathy Hochul’s cost of living crisis, and they’ll get it with my plan to cut income taxes, slash utility bills in half, and make New York affordable.
State officials said the program has drawn diverse talent from New York and across the country since it began, with graduates moving into senior roles across state agencies and the Executive Chamber, including deputy commissioner, deputy secretary and chief of staff positions.
New York State Department of Civil Service Commissioner and Civil Service Commission President Timothy R. Hogues called it “a great way to begin a career as a servant-leader and make a difference in communities all across New York State.”
The Empire State Fellows program is a great way to begin a career as a servant-leader and make a difference in communities all across New York State. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re looking for the next generation of innovative, curious and diverse thinkers and learners to work alongside talented leaders as part of this wonderful program.
The Department of Civil Service will appoint each fellow to work directly with a commissioner, deputy commissioner or other high-level policymakers at a state agency or authority, or in the Executive Chamber. Fellows also take part in educational and professional development programming, including an orientation course in January and semi-monthly coursework at the Rockefeller Institute of Government through the first year. Professional development activities include mentoring and regular meetings with Cabinet members and other government leaders.
At the end of the fellowship, the program will identify high-performing fellows for opportunities to continue serving in New York state government.
An online information session is scheduled for April 21 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. for interested applicants.
State Sen. Robert Jackson said,
Leadership in government is not inherited — it is cultivated through service, discipline, and the courage to act. The Empire State Fellows Program helps open that path, inviting a new generation of New Yorkers to step forward — not simply to study power, but to shape public policy with purpose, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people they serve.
Assemblymember Pheffer Amato said,
Through the leadership of Governor Hochul, New York State is stepping up to mentor the next generation of policymakers through the Empire State Fellows Program. This hands-on opportunity to work directly with leaders from State departments and agencies will help shape the future of our State and ensure the best workforce for New York!Comment with Bubbles
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More information on the program and instructions on how to apply are available online, along with an RSVP link for the April 21 information session.