Joined by dozens of business and education partners, Capital Region BOCES formally celebrated on Friday (Oct. 17) the opening of its newest education center.
The opening of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Extension Center at 886 Watervliet-Shaker Road in Albany (Colonie) was marked by speeches and tours during a 40-minute ceremony.
Manufacturing and Machining Technology senior Emma Weiland addressed the dignitaries, praising BOCES and the Extension Center for fueling her passion in engineering.
“We’ve been given even more space, more tools, and more opportunities to work with cutting-edge, computerized machines. It’s opened doors to learn and grow in ways I never expected,” said the Shenendehowa student who plans to pursue a degree next year in mechanical engineering.
Jeff Palmer, Director of Career and Technical Education, said the Extension Center represents new opportunities.
“With the opening of the Extension Center, we’ve expanded several of our most in-demand programs: Electrical Trades, Building Trades, Heavy Equipment Repair and Operation, and Cosmetology,” Palmer said. “We’ve created new and improved lab spaces for Digital Media Design and Manufacturing and Machining Technology. And we’ve launched two exciting new programs: Plumbing Technology and New Visions: Emerging Technologies — programs that directly align with the region’s workforce needs in skilled trades, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy.”
The opportunities’ theme was continued by Brian Williams, Executive Director of the Capital Region Workforce Development Board, in his remarks.
“I view this building as providing more opportunities for the businesses to get the skilled workforce that is so needed today,” he said.
Williams added that for the students, “BOCES provides a great opportunity for a lucrative career.”
Located across from the Albany Career and Technical Education Center—the 46,377-square-foot CTE Extension Center is home to 214 students, which is near the building’s capacity.
Business and government representatives on hand praised the facility as they took part in tours.
“This is an incredible demonstration of the cooperation between education, organized labor, the private sector and the public. Its impact with the services it provides to students will only grow as they enter the workforce,” said state Sen. Jake Ashby.
Schenectady manufacturer Package One Industries sent a contingent to the celebration, not only to recognize BOCES’s contribution to the industry, but also to support Weiland, who took part in work-based learning with the company last summer.
“To have students like Emma come to us with the drive and training she has reinvigorated Package One and strengthens our commitment to BOCES,” said Joel Lape, Shop Foreman for the manufacturer.