Middleburgh students attending Capital Region BOCES Career and Technical Education are gaining expertise and preparing for careers in Automotive, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Criminal Justice and Heavy Equipment Operation, Maintenance and Repair. With an emphasis on hands-on learning, students are mastering essential skills for in-demand careers.

Here are some MCS student observations about what they have been learning this year and their career goals.

Logan Chichester, enrolled in the Heavy Equipment program, says his time with BOCES will set him up for future success.

“I am looking forward to seeing how my skills compare and hopefully improving my dozer skills, as well as meeting people.”

“I want to work for National Grid on the transmission lines using the heavy equipment skills I learn at BOCES.”

Cierra DuPont is in the Criminal Justice program and is considering a career as an environmental conservation officer.

“I love it. It’s a really good program, and it is teaching me a lot about law and the criminal justice system.”

Katrina Graves says the Automotive field is a natural for her.

“I am either going into the military or going to HVCC for auto repair. I eventually want to work as a mechanic. I love cars. I have been around them my whole life.”  

Ashley Moorhead has been attending classes in the Heavy Equipment program and says National Grid may be a good career fit for her. She also says the program has made her a better student.

“I enjoyed learning the building trades and learning heavy equipment, but I am definitely happier with the HE side and learning much more.”

“I work on a farm. I live on a farm own animals, and I would love to work at NG. It is close to home, good pay, family oriented, good benefits. It sounds like a good place to work. I already know a lot of people that work for them. I would love to become an operator there, but I am also willing to go to school at HV.”

“BOCES motivates me to go to school. I am not a kid to sit in a classroom. I am more of a hands-on person. I don’t like to open books. My grades have gone up.”

Erica Nahaczewski is enrolled in the Culinary program.

  “I like to cook, and I like to be here learning.” 

Alexandria Weygant is preparing for the state boards through the Cosmetology program.

 “Ever since I was little, I have been interested in doing hair. I used to do my aunt’s hair, and this is just fun.” 

MCS continues to support students attending Capital Region BOCES as they gain firsthand insights into their chosen fields and begin establishing career networks.