Career & Technical School student Daniel Baughn is leaving a lasting impression in his home city of Watervliet.
Recently, Baughn, who attends our Building Trades program, constructed a full-sized wooden podium that was presented to Watervliet Mayor Charles Patricelli and Police Chief Joseph Centanni.
“It’s nice to be able to use the skills I have learned here to give back to my community,” said Baughn.
Watervliet School Superintendent Donald Stevens, Joseph LaCivita, general manager for the city, and Police Lt. Brian Strock joined Baughn, Centanni and Patricelli for the presentation.
“Having a nice, new podium has been a longtime desire of mine. Having one that was made by a young citizen of our city is especially gratifying. I look at the craftsmanship of this and I am amazed by the work,” said Patricelli.
Centanni added, “It’s great to see a young person using his hands to create something that will last a long time and will reinforce a positive image of our city.”
Exemplifying Good Citizenship
Stevens said Baughn’s work and donation “exemplifies good citizenship.”
“He has a bright future ahead of him with the quality of work he creates and his understanding of what it means to be a good citizen,” Stevens said.
Building Trades Teacher Paul Roberts said Baughn spent about a month making the pine podium out of reclaimed wood, balancing his time between the podium and other school projects.
“Projects like this give our scholars an opportunity to learn the value of charitable acts, and it also reinforces professional soft skills such as time management and communication,” said Shelette Pleat, principal of the Career and Technical School, Albany Campus.
As to his future, Baughn will attend the construction program at Alfred State in the fall before eventually opening his own construction business.
“I want to own my own construction business and I want to be able to give back to the city and the people who are less fortunate,” Baughn said.
Earn Skills For An In-Demand Career
Interested in earning skills for one of today’s in-demand careers? Want to do it your own way? Students in our component districts are encouraged to explore our Career and Technical School and its 40+ offerings.