A trio of students who found employment in an auto dealership through Capital Region BOCES credit that experience with shifting their learning—and their futures—into high gear.
High school seniors Hope Caufield, Mason Kidwell and Trevor Siemann were hired to work last summer at BOCES business partner Capitaland Motors GMC-Subaru and have continued that employment this school year.
“I like working there a lot,” said Siemann, who attends BOCES from Voorheesville High School. “I enjoy the people and working with my hands, and I am learning a lot.”
“I love working at Capitaland. It is really beneficial and a great learning experience,” added Caufield, a Schalmont High School senior.
“It’s been good. I have enjoyed learning and working and gaining experience,” said Kidwell, a Scotia-Glenville High School student.
The students started work at Capitaland in late June, using the skills they crafted during their junior year in the Auto Trades Technology program at Capital Region BOCES.
Capital Region BOCES works with more than 300 business, union, and education partners, such as Capitaland, to help fuel the regional and state economies. Through these partnerships, students can gain expanded skill sets and launch careers directly out of high school or land jobs that will help them pay for future educational opportunities.
Caufield credits the work at Capitaland with building her confidence in her abilities to repair vehicles.
“The people at Capitaland are great. If it weren’t for them, I don’t know if I would trust that I can really work in the auto industry,” she said.
Bill May, Service Manager for Capitaland Motors GMC-Subaru, said “BOCES has provided us with quality students to fill a need in this difficult job market, as well as provide an additional education benefit for the students. Hope, Mason and Trevor have a home with Capitaland when their education is complete.”
The three students plan to continue working at Capitaland. Caulfield and Siemann additionally plan to attend the automotive technology program at Hudson Valley Community College in the fall.
“I have already been accepted into the auto program at HVCC and I will definitely keep working at Capitaland and building my skills,” Caufield said.
Meanwhile Kidwell said he plans to work full-time after graduation and eventually pursue a trade school degree.
Approximately 100 students from 24 area school districts are enrolled each school year in the Automotive Trades Technology program at Capital Region BOCES. Offered on the Capital Region BOCES Career and Technical Education Center – Albany and Schoharie campuses. Students in the two-year program learn everything from computerized diagnostics to hands-on repairs while gaining the skills to service and maintain all types of cars and light trucks. Students are prepared to enter the industry or pursue higher education and earn professional certifications that will aid them no matter the path they choose.