October is National Careers in Construction Month, and there’s no better place for area high school students and adults to learn the trade than at Capital Region BOCES. Our programs have experienced teachers and partnerships with industry leaders to equip students with the tools to find their passions and succeed in school and career.
In recognition of national Careers in Construction Month, we are highlighting the growing field of construction trades to inspire the next generation of craft professionals. The in-class demonstrations, guest speakers and celebrations slated for this month will further build the connections students have with business partners and construction industry training programs. More about our supportive industry partners can be found here.
While our pride in construction careers is not limited to the month of October, we have signed a pledge with the Build Your Future campaign to spread the word about the wide-range of construction career paths, while promoting positive perceptions of construction for the month.
Students provided tools to build foundation for success
From electrical trades to heavy equipment to construction, carpentry, welding and HVAC/R, our programming provides students with pathways to great careers.
Enrollment in our eight construction-related programs is up 2 percent from last year and 24 percent from two years ago, with 342 high school students in attendance. This underscores a greater trend of students and their families realizing the value of the skilled trades.
“We continue to see growth in interest in our programs, yet it doesn’t keep up with the demand from businesses for our students. Our partners know our students bring skills that make them highly desirable in the workforce and as a result we receive requests every day from businesses looking to hire our students,” said Nancy Liddle, senior business liaison.
Many of our programs provide students with professional certifications that are often recognized by contractors and employers. Adult programs, including welding and heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R), boast near 100 percent career placement. Participation in our programs provides our learners with the practical skills in their chosen field of study, giving them an edge in the job market.
“I look at BOCES as a long-term solution to recruiting young laborers and skilled workers and having them train and progress and become equipment operators with us,” said Casey Balzer, assistant branch manager for Kamco. Kamco is one of the largest commercial and residential building material suppliers in New York and across the country.
More on the learning happening in our construction trades programs
Grad Builds A Solid Career In Construction
About our Career & Technical Education programs
The Capital Region Career & Technical Education Center, in collaboration with business and community partnerships, provides educational opportunities dedicated to empower students to enter the workforce, compete in a global marketplace and engage in lifelong learning. Learn about the courses and programs offered through our Career & Technical Education Centers.