Dutchess BOCES not only provides career and technical education for students through its Career and Technical Institute, but gives them real world experience by hosting some of those students as interns throughout the year and placing others outside the agency. This helps ensure students are confident in their employability skills and job-specific skills – and provides them with work-based learning hours required to complete the program.
The computer networking & cybersecurity and computer hardware technology programs prepare students for a career in technology. These programs also prepare students for some of the most universal industry certifications.
Anthony Manell, Microcomputer Network Support Specialist and a Dutchess BOCES graduate himself, shared that the hands-on learning provided in this program is incomparable. “When I work with the students, I’ll take them with me when I get a ticket. That way they’re learning not only how to troubleshoot a specific problem, but how to speak to someone who's experiencing an issue,” Manell said. “I have a soft spot for CTI because I have fond memories of being here as a student.”
Student Prem Bendi shared, "It was interesting to watch Anthony work. When I was shadowing him we went to lots of classrooms where teachers were having problems.One of the things I learned was it’s helpful to explain what you are doing while you’re doing it, not in a complicated way, but it can help if the person having the problem is upset or stressed. It also could help if the person experiencing the problem now has the problem again later, they might remember what we said was wrong and what we had to do.”
Computer technology teacher Paul Bonanno echoed Bedi’s point, “In my professional opinion, soft skills are the most important element in the world of work that students should practice. Presenting oneself professionally and politely, communicating effectively in person, respecting a customer's time and workspace, these are all necessary to become successful no matter the field.”
But internships at BOCES aren’t the only work experiences available. Through its partnerships, the agency provides external internships as well. Ava Riina is a student in the early childhood education program, finishing up her field hours at the Smith Early Learning Center in Poughkeepsie City School District. Her placement is in a kindergarten class where she assists the teacher with lesson planning and is a hands-on helper with the students. Riina said that the decision to attend BOCES has boosted her grades and her confidence. “I’m spending time doing what I’m passionate about, so my grades reflect that really clearly.” After graduation, Riina will be attending SUNY Cortland for early childhood education. She is grateful for her time at BOCES as she is confident that she is making the right decision for her future.
Principal of CTI Nick Millas said, “Internships are what we do. It’s how we give back to the community. Our programs create experienced, employable, professional young adults. Our students are very successful.”
