Area high school students are finding professional success thanks to the Capital Region BOCES New Visions: Emerging Technologies program.

In its second year of existence, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program was developed in collaboration with industry leaders Plug Power and the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY Creates).

Through the program, students gain hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge in advanced manufacturing, mechanical and electrical systems, hydrogen safety and semiconductor processes. The program covers key topics such as fuel cell systems, pneumatics, automation, cleanroom protocols and troubleshooting techniques.

The program is designed to ensure students gain cutting-edge skills and real-world insights, preparing them for immediate employment or for state-of-the-art apprenticeship programs in the industries.

A pair of students who graduated from the program in June found employment in the industry even before their graduation ceremony.

Dillon Harlow from Shenendehowa joined Global Foundries as part of their IMT Apprenticeship program and Xavion Sutton from Niskayuna joined NY Creates as part of its Micron Apprenticeship Program.

“This program is what I have been looking for my whole school career. It’s active. You are not just sitting around all day,” Sutton said of his experience at BOCES.

Harlow said the program built on his analytical skills.

“We get to work on stuff and program it and see what happens. When it goes wrong, we get to trouble shoot, which I really like to do,” he said.

Fellow Class of 2026 graduate Kwasi Leitch praised the program for its hands-on nature and problem-solving efforts.

“The hands-on experience is the best part of the program. The program is pretty in-depth and gives you a solid understanding of engineering,” the Schenectady graduate said.

Teacher Brian Conway said the program is all about preparing students for the jobs of now—and the future.

“The workforce is going to automation, and these students are being trained to service that automation,” he said.

Officials with NY Creates said the program ensures the region’s workforce can meet the growing demands of this essential industry.

“This partnership will offer students advanced training in chips R&D and trailblazing technologies, establishing a direct pathway to in-demand engineering careers,” said Dr. Robert Geer, NY Creates Vice President for Education and Workforce Development.