Questar III Work-based Learning Coordinator Joan Rogers speaks to the Auto Technology/Auto Services Consultant Committee about the benefits of internships and job shadow placements for students.
On January 27, more than 100 area business people convened at Questar III’s Columbia-Greene Educational Center to discuss curriculum and work-based learning opportunities for students in career and technical education (CTE) programs.
Committee members met with program teachers in their respective fields to provide information on the latest industry trends as well as their own workforce needs, and to discuss possible job shadow and internship opportunities for students.
Work-based learning Coordinator Joan Rogers said this type of collaboration is beneficial to students in terms of preparing them for college, careers and citizenship, but is also a benefit to the participating organizations.
“It’s really a symbiotic relationship in that committee members are updating teachers on the latest trends, at the same time this flow of information also helps to create training for the future workforce of these businesses,” she said.
Committee members in programs ranging from Aviation to Cosmetology discussed ways to increase and diversify the real-world learning opportunities available to students. Parents and members from the regional chambers of commerce were also in attendance.
Dave Zimmie, private pilot and father of a current Questar III student, attended the Aviation Program Consultant Committee to see how he could assist in getting students training at Rensselaer County Airport in Poestenkill by utilizing his planes.
“We already have the planes that are perfect for training, and they could really help a kid decide what they want to do after high school whether it be college or otherwise,” he said.
Mike DiAcetis, community and customer management manager for National Grid has served on the Questar III’s CTE Consultant Committees for the past three years. During that time he facilitated a three-day job shadow for Questar III students and even a “Careers in Energy Day.”
“At National Grid, we think it’s important to support education at all levels. It’s so rewarding to see kids unlock their thought process on what they’d like to do for a career at such a young age,” said DiAcetis. “This committee has been a great way to stay in touch with students at this level so we can answer their questions and hopefully they’ll see National Grid as a career option.”
Committee members also attended a welcome breakfast, provided by Questar III’s Culinary Program students and teacher Chef Peter Desmond.
Interested in helping Questar III? Visit Questar III’s Business Partnership page at https://old.questar.org/education/career-tech-ed/business-partnerships.php.
Participating businesses include: Adam and Eve Salon, Air National Guard, Auto Evolution, BBL Corporation, Brands Farm Thrift, Brunswick Fire Department, Cairo-Durham, Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, Columbia County Sheriff’s Department, Columbia-Greene Community College, Crawford & Associates, Dimension’s North, LTD, DuCommun, Dutchess Community College, Fireman’s Home, G4S Secure Solutions, GE Healthcare, Greene County Chamber of Commerce, Herrington’s Lumber, Hudson Valley Community College, Iron Horse Welding, Jim’s Auto, Johnstone Supply, Kaaterskill Rehabilitation/LT, Kinderhook Toyota, KRW Repair, Lisa Marie’s Beauty Salon, Lotus Energy, Mario’s Lumber, Michael’s Volkswagen and Volvo Repair, Modern Welding School, Mohawk Valley Community College, N & S Supply, Nano Tech Center, NAPA Auto Parts, National Grid, Ravena Welding, Richmor Aviation, Saturn Industries, Sawyer Chevrolet, Schenectady County Airport, Sonoco, Spalon Salon, SUNY Delhi, Sylvia Center @ Katchkie Farm, Tangible Design, The Hair Lab, Upstage Productions, Whittier Rehabilitation Center, William’s Lumber and Workforce Development.
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