Jumaane Hughes: Shaping NY's Cannabis Workforce from the Ground Up

Jumaane Hughes is a key player driving workforce development in New York's legal cannabis industry. As co-founder and Chief Operations Officer of NYS Cannabis Connect—the first organization to partner with the NYS DOL CEED in April 2022—he has spearheaded statewide initiatives like the Catch a Cont@ct Career Summits, inviting community-based organizations, licensees, and ancillary businesses to join in fostering industry growth. Alongside his partner Tiffany Walters, he is building a comprehensive resource that connects individuals with training, jobs, and the information needed to thrive in this rapidly evolving market.

Hughes's expertise, combined with Walters' diverse background spanning cannabis, communications, and childcare, has been instrumental in shaping NYS Cannabis Connect. Their collaborative vision has resulted in a platform that goes beyond simply listing job openings; it aims to cultivate a skilled and informed workforce, ensuring New York's cannabis industry is built on a foundation of knowledge and opportunity.

NYS Cannabis Connect offers a range of resources, including training programs, a job board, and a comprehensive directory of ancillary businesses. This holistic approach recognizes that a successful cannabis industry relies not only on those directly involved in cultivation and retail, but also on a network of supporting services—from legal and financial experts to marketing and security professionals.

Hughes's role as COO is critical in ensuring the smooth operation and continued growth of the platform. He is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities, managing the team, and implementing the strategic vision for NYS Cannabis Connect. His leadership is essential in navigating the complexities of the cannabis industry and ensuring the platform remains a valuable resource for its users.

"We had the foresight to address a market gap we identified in 2021 when the MRTA was still being discussed. We built out GRAM for the industry, transforming how business and community connect," Hughes states, highlighting the platform's proactive approach and its impact on the industry. This vision led to the creation of GRAM, a resource that is transforming the way business and community connect.

The impact of NYS Cannabis Connect extends beyond individual job seekers. By providing training and connecting businesses with qualified employees, the platform contributes to the overall professionalism and stability of New York's cannabis market. This is particularly important as the industry continues to mature and faces increasing regulatory scrutiny.

Hughes and Walters' commitment to equity and inclusion is evident in their efforts to reach out to communities disproportionately affected by past cannabis prohibition. They recognize the importance of creating opportunities for those who have been historically marginalized and are actively working to ensure that the benefits of the legal cannabis industry are shared broadly.

The success of NYS Cannabis Connect is a testament to Hughes's dedication and vision. He is not only building a platform, but also fostering a community—connecting people with the resources they need to succeed in a dynamic and evolving industry. As New York's cannabis market continues to grow, Hughes and NYS Cannabis Connect are well-positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping its future, driving workforce development, and ensuring a thriving and equitable industry for all.