The Career Destinations program at DCMO BOCES hosted full day events at each of their two campuses - Wednesday, Jan. 24 at the Harrold Campus in Sidney Center, and Thursday, Jan. 25 at the Pole Campus in Norwich. The Career Connections event gathered representatives from over 35 businesses and organizations. They joined over 400 students from 16 school districts for a day of career exploration, job preparation and information on local higher education opportunities.
The Career Connections event was developed to expand student’s awareness of local jobs and career opportunities, learn from professionals about career preparation skills and expand relationships between DCMO BOCES instructors and local employers. Students began their day at their technical education classroom where their first session was connected to the industry needs and opportunities for their trade. Students then rotated to participate in two additional breakout sessions, choosing the topics and presentations that best benefited their career preparation goals.
Presenters were encouraged to begin with an industry outlook to help students understand their industry’s needs in terms of skills, the jobs of the future, and the challenges companies are facing recruiting employees. Employers also explained the critical skills needed for the jobs, and discussed what other qualities they look for in a new hire. There was an emphasis on career pathways, or opportunities for advancement within the different companies, and many presenters shared their own individual career story to illustrate the opportunities to grow a career without having to leave an organization. Organizers hope that students will be inspired to find rewarding jobs and career opportunities locally.
Businesses and organizations participating in the Career Connections event at Harrold Campus in Sidney Center included Mohawk Valley Community College Aviation Training Center, Barrett Paving Materials, Sidney Federal Credit Union, Laborers’ Local 785, Visions Federal Credit Union, Optum Insight, Lindsey Equipment, New York State Department of Transportation, Oneonta Lemon Tree, New York Central Mutual Insurance Company, Chobani, Solitude Farmz, The Arc Otsego, Chase Memorial Nursing and Rehabilitation, Bassett Healthcare, Delaware County Court, Delaware County Sheriff Office, Casella Waste Management, DCMO BOCES Print Shop and the Raymond Corporation.
For more information about the educational programs and services offered by DCMO BOCES, visit www.dcmoboces.com
