In today’s rapidly evolving job market, having a competitive edge is more important than ever. For high school students looking to jumpstart their careers and gain valuable skills, Boces Career Programs offer a dynamic pathway to success. Across New York State, Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) are pioneering innovative Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs that are directly aligned with the needs of modern industries. These programs range from operating advanced machinery in manufacturing to programming drones for commercial use, designing stage lighting, installing renewable energy systems, and building robots. This proactive approach to education is attracting a new generation of students eager to get a head start on their futures.
BOCES CTE programs are not just academic exercises; they are strategic initiatives developed in close collaboration with business partners. This ensures that investments in education are directly linked to regional economic priorities, creating a robust ecosystem where young people can thrive. The primary goal of these programs is twofold: to address the growing demand for skilled workers in today’s economy and to provide students with high-quality, affordable learning opportunities that pave the way for successful and productive careers. By fostering strong partnerships between education and industry, BOCES is driving economic growth and empowering students to achieve their full potential.
Leading Edge Skills for a Modern Economy
While CTE programs of the past might have been perceived as solely vocational training, today’s BOCES career programs are incredibly dynamic and forward-thinking. Students benefit from hands-on instruction from experienced educators and gain practical experience through job settings with business and industry partners. However, the learning extends beyond high school. Every BOCES in New York has articulation agreements with colleges and universities, enabling CTE students to earn valuable college credits while still in high school. Impressively, over half of 2018 BOCES graduates pursued higher education, according to a 2019 survey of 37 BOCES. This demonstrates the strong academic foundation provided by these programs.
The modern labor market is significantly more complex than in previous generations, and BOCES career programs are adapting to meet these evolving demands. Emerging programs like “Advanced Manufacturing” and “Health Science Careers” exemplify this adaptability. These programs connect students with internships or apprenticeships at local technology firms or hospitals while simultaneously allowing them to earn college credit. Students can then pursue advanced industry certifications or further their education with two- or four-year degrees, all while maintaining valuable connections with business and industry. In some cases, forward-thinking employers even contribute to the cost of higher education for promising CTE graduates. These robust business partnerships are the cornerstone of these successful career pathways, providing students with the education, networks, and real-world experience needed to thrive in a constantly changing job market.
Many BOCES career programs launched in recent years are strategically aligned with high-growth industries. Approximately two-thirds of the nearly 70 new programs introduced in the last three years are in sectors projected to experience significant job growth in the coming decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These key sectors include healthcare, construction, computer science and mathematics, renewable energy, education, and various service industries. As the economy evolves and the population ages, CTE graduates are positioned to play an increasingly critical role. The objective is not just immediate job placement, but to provide students with relevant and meaningful entry points into fields with substantial long-term career opportunities.
Bridging the Skills Gap: Ready for the Workforce
While the adaptability of BOCES career programs is crucial, their ability to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce with valuable skills and quality jobs remains a significant strength. Between 2018 and 2028, professions such as electricians, HVAC technicians, broadcast and sound engineers, plumbers, and chefs are projected to grow faster than average – in some cases by 10 percent or more. BOCES across New York State have a proven history of equipping graduates with the essential knowledge, skills, experience, and industry connections needed to excel in these high-demand fields and many others.
The urgent need for skilled workers in numerous sectors has prompted organizations at local, regional, and national levels to advocate for a renewed emphasis on Career & Technical Education. The National Skills Coalition highlights the critical “middle skills gap” and its potential impact on the economy. Middle-skill jobs are defined as those requiring more than a high school education but not necessarily a four-year college degree. These encompass vital roles in construction, manufacturing, technology, automotive industries, hospitality, and various trades and service sectors. Despite representing the largest segment of the labor market, key industries in New York and across the nation are struggling to find enough qualified workers to fill these crucial positions.
From construction and culinary arts to healthcare and HVAC, the “middle skills” sector offers diverse and rewarding career paths. BOCES career programs are uniquely positioned to provide students with the specialized training needed to succeed in these fields and to pursue further education and advancement throughout their careers.
Industry Partnerships: The Engine of Program Success
The success of BOCES career programs is deeply rooted in strong partnerships with the business community. Over 4,700 representatives from New York businesses actively participate on BOCES CTE advisory councils throughout the state. These invaluable partners provide essential insights to ensure that programs remain current with industry trends and that new programs are aligned with regional economic development goals. As regions prioritize growth in specific sectors through the Regional Economic Development Councils, business partners collaborate with BOCES to tailor programs that effectively meet these specific workforce demands. Examples of these collaborative initiatives span medicine, healthcare labs, advanced manufacturing, hospitality, cybersecurity, and more, depending on the specific needs of each region. This extensive network of business partners ensures the relevance and effectiveness of CTE programs, creating a robust pipeline of skilled workers who contribute significantly to the local economy.
A Holistic Educational Experience
For students, BOCES career programs offer a powerful combination of active, hands-on learning and real-world application. Students build valuable connections with potential future employers and gain a significant head start on their careers. For some, these programs provide a pathway to reduce the cost of college, while for others, they offer direct entry into the workforce, avoiding college debt altogether. Importantly, students enrolled in CTE programs remain connected to their home school districts, allowing them to continue participating in sports and other extracurricular activities. Many CTE students also engage in SkillsUSA and other industry-specific organizations, further enhancing their skills and professional networks.
New York State’s updated graduation requirements now recognize the successful completion of a CTE program as fulfilling the requirements for a Regents Diploma. Furthermore, the state has introduced the Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) commencement credential. Students meeting CDOS requirements graduate with a credential demonstrating their career readiness and work-based learning experiences, signaling their preparedness for employment. Regardless of a student’s interests or future goals, participation in a BOCES career program provides invaluable skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.
CTE: A Key Component of a Strong Future
BOCES leaders firmly believe that expanding real-world learning opportunities and strengthening the connections between education and business are essential for maintaining a thriving economy and creating opportunities for young people. Everyone has a role to play in supporting this vital mission:
Educators: Continue to emphasize the diverse opportunities available to students through BOCES career programs and their potential for future success.
Students and Families: Explore the wide range of programs offered by BOCES and consider attending a CTE open house in your region to learn more.
Public Policymakers: Recognize the increasing importance of CTE and continue to provide support and investment in these critical programs.
Business and Industry Leaders: Maintain your valuable partnerships with BOCES and continue to collaborate to address evolving needs and opportunities in your region.
Career & Technical Education has made remarkable progress in recent years. By working together, we can build upon these achievements and ensure that BOCES career programs continue to be a driving force for economic growth and a springboard for student success, today and in the future.
