Students in the Capital Region BOCES Heavy Equipment, Electrical Trades and Building Trades programs recently completed their practical competency exams to be certified as forklift operators.
The certification—required to operate a forklift in New York State—is one of dozens of professional certifications Capital Region BOCES students can earn in their various programs. The certifications give them an advantage in the workforce and allow them to advance up the career step ladder quicker than peers who do not attend BOCES.
“This certification puts the students ahead of others applying for the same job. For juniors, it makes them stand out when applying for work-based learning or an internship and for seniors it could mean the difference between getting a job or not,” said Heavy Equipment instructor Matt Millard.
Students said they appreciated the opportunity.
“I like that I am learn more about what I like to do and it’s different than normal school. We are doing things and learning important stuff. The forklift certification was not very hard to earn at all,” said Derrick Fuller, a Heavy Equipment junior from Middleburgh.
“I like that I get to learn new skills and build on what I already know how to do,” added classmate Jonathon Farnum from Duanesburg.
In order to earn the Forklift Operator certification, students had to pass a written exam and then complete an obstacle course while operating a forklift.
MCS currently has seven students enrolled in the Heavy Equipment Operation, Maintenance & Repair program that is offered on the Schoharie campus this year. Students learn how to operate and maintain large construction-related equipment, such as backhoes, dozers, front end loaders and excavators. Students also learn how to diagnose and repair common issues with diesel equipment.
There are six MCS students enrolled in the Building Trades program at Career & Technical Education Center, which is offered on both the Albany and Schoharie campuses. The program provides students valuable construction industry experience through on- and off-campus projects as they prepare for careers in the industry.
The Electrical Trades program at Capital Region BOCES is located on the Albany and Schoharie Career & Technical Education Center campuses. The program teaches students the fundamental skills in electrical theory through classroom instruction and hands-on shop lessons. Through this training they can become successful residential, commercial and industrial wiring professionals. One MCS student is enrolled this year.
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