Students from the Natural Resource Program, led by Larry Miller, Sr., represented their school at the NYS Conservation Competition at Morrisville College. They competed against other high school students from BOCES programs across New York State and demonstrated skill, teamwork, and knowledge.
Students participated in equipment contests such as bulldozer log roll, trenching and backfill, backhoe operation, and excavator log skidder. They also excelled in events testing their knowledge and physical skills, such as axe throwing, chainsaw cutting, tree felling, and log rolling. Team events like crosscut saw, pulp throw, and fire building demonstrated how well they worked together and applied their technical skills.
The students’ strong performances earned them over $4,000 in college tuition awards for placing in the top three in several events. This achievement reflects the hard work of the students and their instructor, as well as the high standards of the Natural Resource Program.
Congratulations to all the students for their great accomplishments at this year’s competition!
Students participated in equipment contests such as bulldozer log roll, trenching and backfill, backhoe operation, and excavator log skidder. They also excelled in events testing their knowledge and physical skills, such as axe throwing, chainsaw cutting, tree felling, and log rolling. Team events like crosscut saw, pulp throw, and fire building demonstrated how well they worked together and applied their technical skills.
The students’ strong performances earned them over $4,000 in college tuition awards for placing in the top three in several events. This achievement reflects the hard work of the students and their instructor, as well as the high standards of the Natural Resource Program.
Congratulations to all the students for their great accomplishments at this year’s competition!
Students in the Natural Resource Occupations program at ONC BOCES took part in a valuable hands-on learning session led by three representatives from Asplundh, a leading company in vegetation management services across the country.
During the session, Asplundh professionals taught students important tree climbing and felling techniques. They showed advanced rope and rigging methods that help keep workers safe and avoid hazards on the job. The team also stressed the importance of work ethic, teamwork, and safety when working with customers in the field. Along with the hands-on demonstrations, students heard about Asplundh’s work across the United States and its focus on daily on-the-job training with experienced crews and foremen. This real-world experience can help students explore rewarding career paths with the company.
ONC BOCES thanks Asplundh for offering this engaging and valuable learning experience, which helps prepare the next generation of skilled natural resource professionals.
During the session, Asplundh professionals taught students important tree climbing and felling techniques. They showed advanced rope and rigging methods that help keep workers safe and avoid hazards on the job. The team also stressed the importance of work ethic, teamwork, and safety when working with customers in the field. Along with the hands-on demonstrations, students heard about Asplundh’s work across the United States and its focus on daily on-the-job training with experienced crews and foremen. This real-world experience can help students explore rewarding career paths with the company.
ONC BOCES thanks Asplundh for offering this engaging and valuable learning experience, which helps prepare the next generation of skilled natural resource professionals.
New Visions Engineering students had a full day of hands‑on learning, real‑world engineering insight, and career exploration.at Par Health in Hobart.
The visit kicked off with a meet‑and‑greet in the conference room, where students met Par Health engineers, then split into groups for a facility tour. They explored the machines and processes used to create and package a wide range of pharmaceuticals produced right in Hobart.
After the tour, students participated in an interactive engineering challenge focused on efficient equipment changeovers—a real industry skill. Each round pushed them to think critically, adapt quickly, and use new tools to improve their process.
Engineers then shared a presentation about Par Health’s global impact and their own career paths, including a special opportunity to meet the Vice President of Engineering for Par Health International, who has been with the company for over 50 years.
To wrap up the day, the HR manager spoke with students about what companies look for in engineers, how to secure internships, and what to expect during multi‑round interview processes.
This trip gave students a powerful look into engineering careers, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and the skills that shape the industry.
The visit kicked off with a meet‑and‑greet in the conference room, where students met Par Health engineers, then split into groups for a facility tour. They explored the machines and processes used to create and package a wide range of pharmaceuticals produced right in Hobart.
After the tour, students participated in an interactive engineering challenge focused on efficient equipment changeovers—a real industry skill. Each round pushed them to think critically, adapt quickly, and use new tools to improve their process.
Engineers then shared a presentation about Par Health’s global impact and their own career paths, including a special opportunity to meet the Vice President of Engineering for Par Health International, who has been with the company for over 50 years.
To wrap up the day, the HR manager spoke with students about what companies look for in engineers, how to secure internships, and what to expect during multi‑round interview processes.
This trip gave students a powerful look into engineering careers, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and the skills that shape the industry.
CFES New Vision Engineering mentors did an excellent job presenting at the Otesaga. A slideshow, pictures, and hands-on projects were incorporated to highlight our CFES program as an interactive gallery walk-through. Mentors explained the three core practices of CFES Brilliant Pathways: Mentoring, College and Career Readiness, and Essential Skills (Leadership, Teamwork, Goal Setting, Networking, Perseverance, and Agility). The CFES Advisors were extremely proud of the mentor's full participation in this opportunity alongside students from other districts in our region.
#CFESBrilliantPathways
#Collegeandcareerready
#mentoring
#essentialskills
#schoolofdistinction
#CFESBrilliantPathways
#Collegeandcareerready
#mentoring
#essentialskills
#schoolofdistinction
Last Monday, we proudly celebrated Mackenzie Louden of Laurens, Daryl Tully of Jefferson, Mrs. Rogers, OAOC Cosmetology teacher, and Mr. Holbrook, NCOC Welding teacher, during the Honored Scholars recognition ceremony.
The Honored Scholars program recognizes outstanding scholastic achievement among graduating seniors across the DCMO and ONC BOCES supervisory area and celebrates the educators who have made a meaningful and lasting difference in their students’ lives. The program helps strengthen connections among schools, higher education, and the business community.
Congratulations to Mackenzie, Daryl, Mrs. Rogers, and Mr. Holbrook on this well-deserved recognition! We are proud to celebrate your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
The Honored Scholars program recognizes outstanding scholastic achievement among graduating seniors across the DCMO and ONC BOCES supervisory area and celebrates the educators who have made a meaningful and lasting difference in their students’ lives. The program helps strengthen connections among schools, higher education, and the business community.
Congratulations to Mackenzie, Daryl, Mrs. Rogers, and Mr. Holbrook on this well-deserved recognition! We are proud to celebrate your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
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!
