Area 
Area high school students are building their futures and diversifying their career options thanks to a new Capital Region BOCES program.
During a recent afternoon session, students in the New Visions: Emerging Technologies were working on their robotics skills as they touted their growing knowledge of not only robotics, but a host of technology fields.
“In Emerging Technologies, we get to learn multiple technologies and prepare for careers in many different trades,” said Kwasi Leitch, a Schenectady student, as he worked on a pneumatic circuit.
Classmate Krisha Wright elaborated on that thought.
“We are learning about a lot of different technologies—solar power, air and pneumatic power, electrical power, robotics. All different types of technology. It’s a good diversity of skills that prepares us for a lot of different skilled trades,” the Schenectady student said.
Launched in September, the New Visions: Emerging Technologies 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.
Student Arron Scott of Schenectady said he enjoys programming and learning new skills.
“I thought it was going to be a lot harder, but it’s not. You learn the basics of everything, and it gives you a good foundation,” he said. “I enjoy it a lot.”