Six seniors from the Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs have commenced a new pre-apprenticeship initiative in collaboration with local businesses. This program, which began in March 2024, aims to provide students with valuable on-the-job training while enhancing their educational experience.
The initiative is a joint effort between the Herkimer BOCES work-based learning department, local businesses, and the HMO Workforce Development Board. Each student is required to complete a minimum of 60 hours of quality training alongside relevant classroom instruction. This after-school program is designed not only to develop a local talent pipeline but also to align the skills of participating students with the needs of area businesses.
Students in this pre-apprenticeship program will receive monetary compensation and a new laptop computer as recognition of their commitment to the initiative. The selected seniors, along with their respective programs and participating businesses, include:
– Richard Savarese: Advanced Manufacturing, Central Valley, at Fuller Tools
– Riyen Wentworth: Advanced Manufacturing, Central Valley, at Turbo Machined Products
– Jayden Davis: Visual Communications and Media Arts, Frankfort-Schuyler, at Max’s Print Shop
– Alex Shand: Welding and Metal Fabrication, Dolgeville, at Feldmeier Equipment
– James Amendolare: Welding and Metal Fabrication, Central Valley, at Feldmeier Equipment
– Elijah Jones: Power Sports and Agricultural Mechanics, Poland, at Darrow’s Adirondack Motors
The pre-apprenticeship program not only equips students with practical skills but also strengthens partnerships between educational institutions and local businesses. By fostering these connections, the program aims to prepare the next generation of skilled workers, ultimately benefiting both the local economy and the students’ career prospects.
The collaboration reflects a growing trend in education to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. As students engage in hands-on training, they gain insights into their chosen fields, paving the way for future employment opportunities.
This initiative marks a significant step forward for Herkimer BOCES and the participating local businesses, emphasizing the importance of vocational training in today’s job market.
