NYATEP Announces New Interim Executive Director, Board President

ALBANY, NY — April 7, 2025 — The New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP), New York State’s leading industry group representing workforce development organizations and practitioners, today announced a new Interim Executive Director and Board President. David Fischer, a long-time workforce researcher, analyst, and former New York City public administrator, will step in as Interim Executive Director, while Dr. Louise McLoughlin, D.P.A., will assume the role of Board President. 

David Fischer comes to NYATEP following a 25-year career in workforce development. His early work in the field included positions as a researcher and analyst with the Center for an Urban Future and director of career and technical education programs at the NYC Department of Education. From 2015 to 2022, he served as the founding Executive Director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Youth Employment. Since leaving government, he has been Principal of Altior Policy Solutions, a consultancy based in Poughkeepsie, New York. Among David’s recent work, he authored NYATEP’s State of the Workforce reports for each of the last two years. 

“For as long as I have been in workforce development, NYATEP has provided invaluable service to the field through its insightful analysis, compelling advocacy campaigns, and best-in-class events and professional development training programs,” said newly appointed Interim Executive Director David Fischer. “At a time of great change in the labor market, I am deeply honored and excited for the opportunity to contribute to its vital work.” 

In addition, the NYATEP Board of Directors has elected Dr. Louise McLoughlin, D.P.A. as Board President. Dr. McLoughlin currently serves as Executive Director of the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (WIB), a role she has held since 2017. At the WIB, Dr. McLoughlin has gained recognition for her innovative approach to program design and her leadership in building effective partnerships between the business community and the public workforce system. She has served on NYATEP’s Board since 2020. 

“NYATEP has been a major force in shaping fair workforce and economic development in New York. The organization’s impact isn't just about policy wins or successful programs—it's about the real, lasting changes it brings to communities and the success of business owners, staff, and life-long learners,” stated Dr. McLoughlin. “Being part of this next chapter is really personal and incredibly exciting for me. I'm committed to advancing NYATEP's mission with the same boldness, tenacity, and vision that has always defined this organization. We're not just reacting to the present—we're shaping the future. And I truly believe the best is yet to come.”

Brian Williams, who has served as NYATEP’s Board President since 2018, will now assume the role of Past President. Under his stewardship, the organization navigated significant milestones, including the transition from the federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA) to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), historic statewide investments in workforce development—such as the establishment of the Office of Strategic Workforce Development—and the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic passing of NYATEP’s longtime executive director, Melinda Mack, in 2023. Williams will continue to provide leadership and continuity in his new capacity on the board. 

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve NYATEP and the workforce development sector as Board President for the last six years,” stated Brian Williams, Executive Director, Capital Region Workforce Development Board. “As NYATEP moves into a new chapter, under the leadership of my esteemed colleague, Louise McLoughlin, I have no doubt that the organization will continue to grow, innovate, and transform the workforce development system for years to come. I look forward to continuing to support our mission and members in my new role as Past Board President.” 

As New York’s only statewide workforce association, NYATEP remains committed to its 50-year mission to advocate for the effectiveness of federally funded workforce programs and support skills training, education, and employment opportunities across the state. NYATEP’s membership base directly impacts the lives of over one million New Yorkers and thousands of businesses each year. 

Additional Comments 

“David Fischer has been a champion for workforce providers throughout his career, bringing deep expertise in advocating for policies and programs that expand opportunities for workers. We are delighted that David has been selected as interim Executive Director during this transition period. At CSW, we look forward to continued collaboration with the NYATEP team on the Partnering Economic & Employment Research (PEER) Academy, which equips workforce and economic development professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to access and utilize quality data.” - Kysha Wright Frazier, President and CEO, Corporation for a Skilled Workforce 

"Now more than ever, New York and its workers need NYATEP's insights, advocacy, and support for the workforce field. With his experience and knowledge, David Fischer is the right person to lead NYATEP at this critical time." - Lisette Nieves, President, Fund for the City of New York 

“NYATEP’s work and leadership providing technical assistance, network support, and policy advocacy is critical for Central New York’s success at a time when our workforce ecosystem is poised for significant growth. David’s deep expertise in workforce development and his strong relationships across New York State position him well to lead this organization and help our community evolve to meet this critical moment. I look forward to working with him and our partners at NYATEP to ensure progress and opportunity are realized by all in our community.” – Aimee Durfee, Vice President of Workforce Innovation, CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity 

“Now, perhaps more than ever, our state’s workforce community needs a unified voice to help navigate the challenges we face both in New York, as well as the ongoing turbulence in Washington. I am confident that NYATEP will continue to rise to the occasion under the leadership of David Fischer and thank him for stepping in to lead our organization during this dynamic time.” – Dave Seeley, Executive Director, RochesterWorks 

“David has a tremendous grasp of the myriad skill building programs that make up New York’s workforce development community. Great hire.” – John Twomey, Founding Executive Director, NYATEP