Our Mission
The New York State Weatherization Directors Association is committed to developing new opportunities in support of its’ membership, linking sound public policy with the concepts of energy conservation and economic self sufficiency, resulting in safe, healthy, and affordable housing for low income families in New York State.
The corporation is organized for the following purposes:
- The corporation is organized for the following purposes:
- To establish the corporation as a leader within the energy conservation community;
- To associate its members together for their mutual benefit as directors of weatherization programs;
- To provide and disseminate educational, management, technical and other information to its members;
- To provide a process and voice through which its members may address problems;
- To represent its members point of view to state and federal agencies except to the extent provided under Section 501(h) of the Code as it may from time to time be amended.
- To act as an advocate for the right of all low income, elderly, and handicapped persons to live in safe, comfortable, energy efficient housing;
- To perform any and all things not inconsistent with law that affects the mutual interest of weatherization directors.
The association may undertake any and all other activities as are proper, reasonable, and desirable to carry into effect the purposes of the Association including, but not limited to, legal proceeding; rent, purchase, or otherwise hold real estate; solicit and receive contributions; contract with government units, firms and other organizations to procure or provide services or functions as per the contract; and to act as a liaison with other organizations of the membership.
Our History
The New York State Weatherization Directors Association (NYSWDA), located in East Syracuse, NY was incorporated in 1985 with the goal of providing a collective voice and influencing public policy for directors of the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) across the state.
This developed into a uniquely collegial relationship with the state and federal administrators and helped shape the New York State program into one of the best in the nation. NYSWDA continued to grow and expand services over the years and projects such as bulk purchasing of materials, compliance with other state and federal regulators, and conference organization were added to our roster of activities.
Due to the nature and complexity of the Weatherization Program, the next logical step was to provide a centrally located training center where field as well as management staff could go to receive the latest information on technological advancements in the field of energy conservation.
In 2004, NYSWDA was established as a subgrantee by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal and a full time staff was hired. With staff on board, we were ready to move into a permanent structure and realize a dream that had been on the drawing table for many years.
In 2006, NYSWDA established a permanent training facility on Fisher Road in East Syracuse, New York.
Expanded in 2010, the facility provides a modern, state of the art site for training weatherization staff and home performance contractors from around the country. With an emphasis on applied mechanical skills and using the latest diagnostic equipment, we integrate classroom training and laboratory exercises to provide energy auditors and field technicians an exceptional learning experience.
The training center includes two classroom spaces which can accommodate up to 54 individuals. A full complement of audio visual equipment and ‘hands on’ props enhance the adult students’ learning experience. Last year over 1000 students attended 80 separate trainings both nationally and at the center. The trainings encompassed a variety of relevant subjects including: small home energy auditing, insulation techniques, HVAC, air sealing, lead safe work practices, OSHA safety training, EPA Lead Renovator, BPI Certifications and more.
Since that time, NYSWDA has expanded its core membership to include building sciences professionals and allied individuals who are committed to improving home comfort and energy efficiency through variety of venues.
Membership in NYSWDA is not limited to agencies within the New York State Weatherization network.
