amilies and members of the business community watched the students, who have successfully secured the first step to their future by committing to employment, sign letters of intent. These students have chosen to maximize their high school experience with career training and industry recognized certifications.
“Each time I speak with local employers or alumni, I’m reminded just how vital CTE programs are to our region,” said Jared Davis, Director of Career and Technical Education. “Many local businesses rely on our graduates, and their success stories show the real impact our programs have on the local economy.”
“WSWHE BOCES recognizes the increasing demand for a skilled workforce in our region. Signing day is our way of recognizing and thanking our students who are stepping in to meet that need and our business partners who support our students and our programs, ” Davis added.
Gretchen Steffan, Director of the Saratoga Warren Washington Workforce Development Board was the keynote speaker at the event. She spoke about how CTE is building a pipeline of skilled workers for the regional economy. She said apprenticeships and internships offer young people an opportunity to learn and grow their skills and abilities.
“You are an important part of the fabric of America. America needs skilled trades to keep America going, to keep America strong,” said Steffan.
Steffan also gave the students advice, focusing on soft skills. “Be positive. Be open and enthusiastic about your new role.” She advised them to think of themselves as professionals now, and added, “a smile goes a long way.”
Signing Day has grown into a meaningful annual tradition that highlights the real-world impact of CTE programs. In recent years, WSWHE BOCES’ Practical Nursing Program has joined the celebration. This year, 18 Practical Nursing students have secured jobs ahead of graduation—including eight who have been hired by The Pines at Glens Falls, marking a new partnership milestone.
The students will be entering employment with the following companies:
Adirondack Greenscapes
ADK Truck Repair
Alltek Energy
Bast Hatfield Construction
BDP Industries Inc.
Community Health Express Care Castleton
Davis Contracting
D'ELLA GMC
Earth Development
Einzig Electric
Fort Hudson Nursing Center
Funky Solutions LLC
Grasshopper H&C
Hudson Headwaters West Mountain Family Health
Irongate Family PracticeJack Hall Plumbing & Heating
James H. Maloy Inc.
Keeler
Lia Nissan
Maine Drilling & Blasting
Mangino Mitsubishi
Maple Leaf
Monahan Metals
On-Call Plumbing and Heating
Pallette Stone
Pro Nails
Real Bark Mulch
Richard Oil
Rowland Street Garage
Rozell Industries
Saratoga Bridges
Saratoga Hospital
Sean P. Gillen General Construction
Sleeping Giant Construction
St. Mary's Hospital
The Fort Miller Group/Fort Miller Precast
The Old School House
The Pines of Glens Falls
The Pines at Rutland
The Wesley Community
TNT Excavation
Town of Kingsbury
Warren Tire Service Center
Washington County Building & Grounds
West Mountain Ski Resort
World Class Kids
Wrap Kingz
Employers brought the students tools, t-shirts, hats, and more to show their enthusiasm at having the employees. One happy employer, Wrap Kingz, a business specializing in automotive wraps, brought a custom made banner to show their enthusiasm for Gavin Russell of Galway CSD joining their team.
CTE is thankful to the businesses who have opened their doors to our students and recognize their potential.