Donovan, a Mechatronics student at OAOC, is interning at Brooks BBQ’s Oneonta bottling facility. He's replaced old fluorescent lights with energy-saving LED inserts in the warehouse and production plant.
Donovan’s work requires a solid understanding of electrical systems, a skill he developed through his coursework and training under Mr. Anderson's guidance. Donovan has spent many hours wiring and installing the new lights, ensuring each upgrade is safe and effective. His dedication helps Brooks BBQ update its facilities and meet its sustainability and cost-saving goals.
Donovan’s technical skills have made him a valued member of the Brooks BBQ team, demonstrating that his mechatronics training translates to real-world applications. Thank you to Brooks BBQ for helping Donovan further his skills!
Donovan’s work requires a solid understanding of electrical systems, a skill he developed through his coursework and training under Mr. Anderson's guidance. Donovan has spent many hours wiring and installing the new lights, ensuring each upgrade is safe and effective. His dedication helps Brooks BBQ update its facilities and meet its sustainability and cost-saving goals.
Donovan’s technical skills have made him a valued member of the Brooks BBQ team, demonstrating that his mechatronics training translates to real-world applications. Thank you to Brooks BBQ for helping Donovan further his skills!
Reinhardt Heating & Cooling welcomed Jerry on-site this quarter through a work‑based learning internship.
Jerry has jumped into the HVAC industry, gaining hands‑on experience with both heating and cooling systems. He’s been involved in installation and repair projects, working on equipment powered by fuel oil and propane, giving him real exposure to the technologies and techniques used in the field.
He’s also had the chance to learn directly from experienced technicians — Grant Baron, Ben Brockert, Mike Smith, and Holden Smith (pictured left to right with Jerry in the middle) — whose mentorship has helped him build practical skills and deepen his understanding of the trade.
A big thank you to the entire Reinhardt Heating & Cooling team for supporting the next generation of skilled workers! Their commitment to sharing knowledge and providing real‑world learning opportunities makes a meaningful impact on students like Jerry and the community as a whole.
Jerry has jumped into the HVAC industry, gaining hands‑on experience with both heating and cooling systems. He’s been involved in installation and repair projects, working on equipment powered by fuel oil and propane, giving him real exposure to the technologies and techniques used in the field.
He’s also had the chance to learn directly from experienced technicians — Grant Baron, Ben Brockert, Mike Smith, and Holden Smith (pictured left to right with Jerry in the middle) — whose mentorship has helped him build practical skills and deepen his understanding of the trade.
A big thank you to the entire Reinhardt Heating & Cooling team for supporting the next generation of skilled workers! Their commitment to sharing knowledge and providing real‑world learning opportunities makes a meaningful impact on students like Jerry and the community as a whole.
May is a busy month for agriculture in Otsego County. As the weather improves, farmers prepare their equipment for the season. This period also offers an excellent opportunity to collaborate with senior students seeking hands-on experience and work-based learning.
Two of our welding students, Aaron and Wyatt, are working on a wagon to ensure it is safe and fully operational. They are assembling the project using stick welding. Both students demonstrate a solid understanding of metallurgy and possess the steady hand required to produce quality welds.
Two of our welding students, Aaron and Wyatt, are working on a wagon to ensure it is safe and fully operational. They are assembling the project using stick welding. Both students demonstrate a solid understanding of metallurgy and possess the steady hand required to produce quality welds.
Angelina, a Mechatronics student, is gaining real aviation experience at Bentley Aviation Inc. in Oneonta. She’s already building skills in aircraft systems, removing and reinstalling inspection panels, magneto-to-engine timing, flight control checks, Airworthiness Directives research, and safety wiring.
A huge thank you to Bentley Aviation Inc. for helping shape the next generation of aviation professionals!
A huge thank you to Bentley Aviation Inc. for helping shape the next generation of aviation professionals!
The New Visions Engineering Class of 2026 had an incredible experience touring the Chobani facility in New Berlin!
They were welcomed by Mrs. Tugce Hisirci Sullivan for an in‑depth look at Chobani’s history, community impact, and future expansion. They then met with Mr. Knopka, who walked them through the full production process—from local dairy intake to final packaging.
After suiting up in full safety gear, the class headed to the factory floor with Mr. Clark to see the impressive coordination between people and machines that keeps Chobani running.
The visit wrapped up with lunch and career insights from Mr. Chilson, Mrs. Vyskocil, Mr. Suarez, Mr. Lakner, and Mr. Reichert. Students even left with generous cases of yogurt.
A huge thank‑you to the Chobani team for an unforgettable learning experience!
They were welcomed by Mrs. Tugce Hisirci Sullivan for an in‑depth look at Chobani’s history, community impact, and future expansion. They then met with Mr. Knopka, who walked them through the full production process—from local dairy intake to final packaging.
After suiting up in full safety gear, the class headed to the factory floor with Mr. Clark to see the impressive coordination between people and machines that keeps Chobani running.
The visit wrapped up with lunch and career insights from Mr. Chilson, Mrs. Vyskocil, Mr. Suarez, Mr. Lakner, and Mr. Reichert. Students even left with generous cases of yogurt.
A huge thank‑you to the Chobani team for an unforgettable learning experience!
ONC BOCES students recently participated in the NYS SkillsUSA State Competition in Syracuse, achieving outstanding results!
Award Highlights:
1st Place — Related Technical Math: Liam C.
2nd Place — Welding: Daryl T.
2nd Place — Engineering Technology: Andrea F., Sonam G., and Mason C.
3rd Place — Additive Manufacturing: Jonathon T. and Griffin P.
Congratulations to all who placed and to every student who competed. This is a highly competitive event, and each participant demonstrated hard work, skill, and dedication. We’re proud of you!
We are proud to announce that 65 students who attend OAOC CTE and New Visions programs have earned more than $200,000 in Clark Foundation Scholarships! Over the last few weeks, students attended interviews with Dr. William Crankshaw and Maureen Schuermann at the Clark Foundation offices. Either with their home district or OAOC Principal Talbot, the students were escorted to their interviews and afterward, enjoyed a celebratory lunch at the Otesaga in Cooperstown.
We thank the Clark Foundation and The Otesaga for continuing to provide students in our region with incredible opportunities!
We thank the Clark Foundation and The Otesaga for continuing to provide students in our region with incredible opportunities!
The OAOC Cosmetology program represented ONC BOCES at the Annual BOCES Expo Well Event. Mrs. Rogers and students Savanah, Emma, and Mackenzie treated visitors to hair tinsel as they spoke to legislators about the importance of funding outstanding educational programs such as CTE.
30 BOCES centers from across the state spent the day encouraging our legislative body to support our future leaders in their educational pursuits. We are so proud of the professionalism our students displayed!
30 BOCES centers from across the state spent the day encouraging our legislative body to support our future leaders in their educational pursuits. We are so proud of the professionalism our students displayed!
OAOC middle school students had an incredible hands-on learning experience during their recent field trip to the Building Trades classroom! The Building Trades students went above and beyond by preparing all the materials in advance, and Mr. Amos led an engaging lesson on how to build birdhouses. It was a fantastic example of students learning from one another and coming together!
Mechatronics Seniors are hard at work building a Portable Power Monitoring Device, funded through a Corning Foundation grant. This project has been a true collaboration with industry: students have been working closely with Advisory Board member Jeff Sciera of Ralph W. Earl Inc. (RWE), along with automation and integration specialists Adam Reeve, Dave Vormwald, and Robby King. We’re grateful for their continued partnership and support.
This device will track and trend energy consumption to help evaluate operational costs, return on investment, and power‑level compliance for machines. The first application will be monitoring the new robotic pallet‑moving system at Corning in Oneonta, followed by deployment at Bartell Machinery in Rome, NY, where machines are built and shipped worldwide. This device would allow them to prove and provide documentation that the machine is in compliance with the different levels of power that are used in other countries.
This project is a powerful example of education and industry working hand‑in‑hand. The ongoing exchange of ideas with our Advisory Board continues to expand the scope and impact of our program.
This device will track and trend energy consumption to help evaluate operational costs, return on investment, and power‑level compliance for machines. The first application will be monitoring the new robotic pallet‑moving system at Corning in Oneonta, followed by deployment at Bartell Machinery in Rome, NY, where machines are built and shipped worldwide. This device would allow them to prove and provide documentation that the machine is in compliance with the different levels of power that are used in other countries.
This project is a powerful example of education and industry working hand‑in‑hand. The ongoing exchange of ideas with our Advisory Board continues to expand the scope and impact of our program.
Two OAOC students have been participating in a work-based learning internship at Harrison House Childcare Center, strengthening the connection between classroom learning and real-world application.
During the visit, Building Trades instructor Mr. Amos, spoke with general contractor Brian Morell about essential trade skills needed in today’s construction industry.
The current OAOC interns at Eastman Associates have impressed site professionals with their dedication and work ethic. The visit included observing a 2025 OAOC graduate who is now employed by the company.
Mr. Amos said, “We are grateful to Eastman Associates, Brian Morell, and the entire project team for supporting our students’ growth and career exploration.”
To learn more about ONC BOCES work-based learning programs, contact April Erkson, Director of Student Services, at (607) 286-7715 ext. 2609.
During the visit, Building Trades instructor Mr. Amos, spoke with general contractor Brian Morell about essential trade skills needed in today’s construction industry.
The current OAOC interns at Eastman Associates have impressed site professionals with their dedication and work ethic. The visit included observing a 2025 OAOC graduate who is now employed by the company.
Mr. Amos said, “We are grateful to Eastman Associates, Brian Morell, and the entire project team for supporting our students’ growth and career exploration.”
To learn more about ONC BOCES work-based learning programs, contact April Erkson, Director of Student Services, at (607) 286-7715 ext. 2609.
The New Visions Engineering Class of 2026 had an incredible experience touring Apple Converting in Oneonta! Students met with Lead Engineer & President Mr. Troy Turley, toured the facility with Mr. Mark Eagle, Mr. Mark Shalna, and Mr. Brett Bolton, and saw firsthand how wrappers for brands like Chobani, Lindt, and various medical products are made. They also enjoyed a presentation on label‑making from Ms. Ashlea Rapp, followed by a Q&A with Apple Converting’s engineering team. The visit finished with lunch, Lindt chocolate variety bags (wrapped right in Oneonta), and a group photo. A great day of real‑world engineering insight!
NCOC’s SEL Committee topped off their first annual Safety Spirit Week with a Touch the Truck event. Students got hands-on with fire trucks, an ambulance, and a State Trooper vehicle. We had the Smoke House on hand so students could learn what to do during a house fire, and the Troopers brought the alcohol/THC goggles to demonstrate how being under the influence impairs reaction and reflexes. Students were engaged and excited, especially when wielding the fire hose over the pond!
Our thanks to Heather Gockel and the Grand Gorge Fire Department, the New York State Police, and the Regional Partnership Center, who supplied fun plastic hard hats to every NCOC student!
Our thanks to Heather Gockel and the Grand Gorge Fire Department, the New York State Police, and the Regional Partnership Center, who supplied fun plastic hard hats to every NCOC student!
Senior Health Occupations students enjoyed their first day at clinicals!
We are proud to share that Julia Iannello, ONC BOCES School Library Systems Coordinator, received the NYS Educational Media Technology Association Leadership Award for 2024–2025 at the Spring 2026 Conference. Julia’s three years of service as NYS EMTA President strengthened support for educators and students across New York State. A well‑deserved recognition for Julia's leadership and dedication!
The New Visions Engineering Class of 2026 spent an exciting day at Ioxus!
They started with a presentation from Nate Talbot, learning how ultracapacitors work and how Ioxus develops its technology. Then Adam Bouton led a behind‑the‑scenes tour through research and development, production areas, and the company’s impressive display of the company's patents. Students also had the chance to meet founder Chad Hall, making the experience even more memorable.
The visit ended with a Q&A session where students asked in‑depth questions and expanded their understanding of engineering careers.
The class is grateful to Nate, Adam, Chad, and the entire Ioxus team for such an engaging and informative experience!
They started with a presentation from Nate Talbot, learning how ultracapacitors work and how Ioxus develops its technology. Then Adam Bouton led a behind‑the‑scenes tour through research and development, production areas, and the company’s impressive display of the company's patents. Students also had the chance to meet founder Chad Hall, making the experience even more memorable.
The visit ended with a Q&A session where students asked in‑depth questions and expanded their understanding of engineering careers.
The class is grateful to Nate, Adam, Chad, and the entire Ioxus team for such an engaging and informative experience!
The Mechatronics Program held its annual "immersion" day at SUNY Delhi's Mechatronics Program. Students spent the day visiting all of the labs, learning about the program, and finding opportunities to continue their education. We were able to meet with past ONC graduates in the Delhi program and learn from them as well. We were also allowed to visit the Electrical Construction and Utilities Operations lab. This has been an annual event that allows our two Mechatronics Programs to collaborate and expand our technical workforce.
Thank you to Ryan Klein for allowing our bus to drop in on short notice. There are many opportunities for our students to enter the trades and technical fields. It is important that we build and maintain partnerships with industry, businesses, and trade schools to help students learn about the career options available to them.
Thank you to Ryan Klein for allowing our bus to drop in on short notice. There are many opportunities for our students to enter the trades and technical fields. It is important that we build and maintain partnerships with industry, businesses, and trade schools to help students learn about the career options available to them.
OAOC 7th–10th graders got their hands dirty in the best way possible! Students worked collaboratively through a hands-on lesson, planting a pineapple stem they had rooted during their germination study. There’s nothing better than seeing learning come full circle like this!
They wrapped up the day with a few peaceful minutes by the pond before heading home. Students and staff soaked up the sunshine, fresh air, and great company.
The ONC BOCES Annual Meeting brought together administration, component superintendents, and board members for an evening of collaboration and celebration. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal thoughtfully prepared and served by our talented Culinary Arts students, showcasing both their skill and dedication.
A highlight of the evening was a presentation from our New Visions Engineering program, featuring instructor Dave Morell and student Griffin Pizza. Griffin shared a powerful personal story about how the program transformed his trajectory, opening doors and expanding opportunities beyond what was previously available to him in his home district of Sharon Springs. His reflections underscored the meaningful impact of innovative, career-focused education.
Each year, the Annual Meeting also provides an opportunity to recognize valued community partners whose support strengthens ONC BOCES and enhances our ability to serve the region. With sincere gratitude, we were proud to honor Laurie Darlfer-Sweeney and Pete’s Auto and Towing for their continued partnership and commitment.
The evening concluded with a presentation of the proposed 2026–27 BOCES budget, delivered by Dr. Jennifer Avery, offering insight into the organization’s priorities and vision for the coming year.
A highlight of the evening was a presentation from our New Visions Engineering program, featuring instructor Dave Morell and student Griffin Pizza. Griffin shared a powerful personal story about how the program transformed his trajectory, opening doors and expanding opportunities beyond what was previously available to him in his home district of Sharon Springs. His reflections underscored the meaningful impact of innovative, career-focused education.
Each year, the Annual Meeting also provides an opportunity to recognize valued community partners whose support strengthens ONC BOCES and enhances our ability to serve the region. With sincere gratitude, we were proud to honor Laurie Darlfer-Sweeney and Pete’s Auto and Towing for their continued partnership and commitment.
The evening concluded with a presentation of the proposed 2026–27 BOCES budget, delivered by Dr. Jennifer Avery, offering insight into the organization’s priorities and vision for the coming year.
We proudly welcomed a new group of outstanding students into the National Technical Honor Society at OAOC. These inductees have demonstrated not only academic strength and technical skill, but also the character and commitment that define true leaders.
The NTHS Core 4 Objectives — Career Development, Leadership, Service, and Recognition — serve as the foundation of every chapter. They empower students to grow, give back, and prepare for meaningful futures in their chosen fields.
Our newest members embody these principles through their hard work, integrity, and dedication to excellence. Their achievements strengthen our NTHS community and inspire others to rise to the challenge.
Congratulations to all inductees — your journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see where your talent and determination take you next!
The NTHS Core 4 Objectives — Career Development, Leadership, Service, and Recognition — serve as the foundation of every chapter. They empower students to grow, give back, and prepare for meaningful futures in their chosen fields.
Our newest members embody these principles through their hard work, integrity, and dedication to excellence. Their achievements strengthen our NTHS community and inspire others to rise to the challenge.
Congratulations to all inductees — your journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see where your talent and determination take you next!
