Highlighting public service as a career pathway

New York State Department of Civil Service Deputy Director, Centers for Careers in Government and BKW Class of 2000 graduate, Erin Ferguson, held multiple seminars for students to review the current employment landscape in public service
New York State Department of Civil Service Deputy Director, Centers for Careers in Government and BKW Class of 2000 graduate, Erin Ferguson, held multiple seminars for students to review the current employment landscape in public service

Understanding the pathway for state employment can be a complicated process for any New York state resident, regardless of age. Today, BKW Secondary School students took advantage of an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of researching state employment. 

As part of that process, New York State Department of Civil Service Deputy Director, Centers for Careers in Government and BKW Class of 2000 graduate, Erin Ferguson, held multiple seminars for students to review the current employment landscape in public service and research several careers, programs, and state agencies seeking tomorrow’s public servants.

We are sharing a quick Q&A with Ms. Ferguson as she details her role within the New York State Department of Civil Service and how engagement with students will play a role in the future of New York state.

How do you play a role in shifting perceptions of public service for today’s students?

My primary role in reaching out to today’s high school students is to demystify the civil service merit system while building interest in statewide programs through community engagement.

What are the current opportunities in civil service for community members including high school students?

With the NY HELPS program, we are introducing new pathways that students and community members can take toward securing employment opportunities. We encourage NY residents to access the Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement (HELP) Program to learn more about this outreach and identify opportunities to pursue their career pathways.

How can the New York Civil Service impact tomorrow’s workforce?

The Centers for Career and Government aims to create a diverse workforce, and we continue to actively work with local and statewide communities to educate, recruit, inform, and successfully fill roles within our state government.