Windows Workforce Training Program
APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2026 WINDOWS WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAM ARE OPEN!
APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, MARCH 20th, 2026
Did you know?
The city of Rochester and surrounding region have one of the largest and most intact collections of historic housing stock in the nation?
In order to properly repair and maintain historic homes and buildings in a cost-efficient, high quality, and historically sensitive manner, it is important to work with contractors and craftspeople who are experienced in the preservation trades. Historic materials and features such as plaster, porches, windows, and general carpentry work require unique and specialized skills that most contractors do not possess.
While there are veteran practitioners of the traditional trades in our region, many of them are approaching retirement. Without a new generation of craftspeople to take over, we are approaching a crisis level of diminishing resources and knowledge to care for our historic resources. Rehabilitation of historic buildings has increased exponentially during the past several decades, providing employment opportunities for craftspeople who are trained in these specific skills.
The Landmark Society is pleased to open applications for its 2026 Windows Workforce Training Program!
The 2026 program will run for six weeks, meeting two days per week from June through July 2026. The training provides intensive, hands-on instruction in historic wood window repair and restoration and is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in the traditional trades, particularly those who already have basic tool use and/or carpentry experience. On the first day of the program, participants will receive an introductory overview of historic preservation, including why historic windows matter, how preservation principles guide repair decisions, and how window restoration fits within the broader preservation field.
Participants will gain practical, real-world experience through all stages of window restoration. Training activities include evaluating window conditions; removing selected sashes; stripping old paint and putty; and safely removing glass. Once windows are prepared, participants will complete restoration work such as wood repairs, priming, resetting glass, and painting. Additional skills taught throughout the program include installing new sash cords, retrofitting weatherstripping, cutting glass, and completing epoxy repairs.
Site visits and guest lectures will be incorporated into the training to expose participants to related career paths and professional settings. During the pilot program, site visits included sessions with Matt Smith of Unified Vision Studio, Jim Turner of Honeoye Falls Millwork, and Peter Wisbey at Genesee Country Village and Museum, offering participants the opportunity to learn directly from local experts and explore related work opportunities.
The Windows Workforce Training Program will be instructed by Brandon Fleishour, owner of The Old Window Company, with assistance from Steve Jordan, window restoration expert, preservation consultant, and educator.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, MARCH 20th, 2026
Questions? Contact Megan Hillyard, Director of Preservation Services, at mhillyard@landmarksociety.org.
This program is made possible by a generous supporter donation and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
