Hudson Valley Cannabis Workforce Blueprint: Cultivating Careers

Why This Survey Matters

"You can't grow the industry if you don't grow the workforce."
- Tiffany Walters, CEO of NYS Cannabis Connect

SUNY colleges across the Hudson Valley are committed to supporting the state’s emerging cannabis industry. To do this effectively, they need direct insight from the businesses driving it forward — both licensees and ancillary companies.

By understanding workforce needs, required skills, wage expectations, and the role of technology, colleges can design informed programs and training that develop the future workforce and benefit the entire industry — not just here in the Hudson Valley, but across New York State.

Your participation in this survey ensures the voices of cannabis operators and service providers are at the center of future workforce solutions. By sharing your insights, you’re helping to build a system that supports your business, allowing you to focus on what matters most: creating a winning workforce culture and building a brand that your community can trust.

Two Surveys, One Goal

There are two separate surveys, each designed to capture the unique perspectives of cannabis businesses:

1. Cannabis Licensee Survey — For New York State cannabis operators across the license types:

• Cultivator
• Processor (1, 2, and 3)
• Distributor
• Retail Dispensary/Delivery
• Microbusiness
• Cooperative
• Nursery
• ROD (Registered Organization with Dispensing)

2. Ancillary Business Survey — For businesses that support the cannabis industry (e.g., construction, marketing, packaging, compliance, HR, tech services, accounting, legal, equipment, security, and more).

Both surveys take only a few minutes to complete — but the impact will be long-lasting.

Link to ancillary survey -  https://forms.office.com/r/cqGeDdU9v7
Link to licensee survey - https://forms.office.com/r/WaZLeHHTVe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why should I take this survey?
Your feedback directly shapes workforce training, certificates, and programs at SUNY colleges. This ensures the talent pool entering the industry has the skills you need to succeed.

2. Who will use this data?
SUNY colleges will use this analyzed data to make informed insights that will guide curriculum development, workforce planning, and industry support services.

3. Is my information confidential?
Yes. All survey responses will be kept confidential and only reported in aggregate. No individual business data will be shared.

4. How long does it take?

The survey takes about 15–20 minutes to complete.

5. Who should fill it out?

• Licensees: Owners, managers, or decision-makers for any of the nine NYS cannabis license types.
• Ancillary businesses: Companies providing services or support to the cannabis industry.

6. How will this benefit my business?
By contributing your perspective, you help ensure that workforce development programs align with real industry needs. This means better-prepared employees, fewer hiring challenges, and more time for you to focus on growth and culture.