For Colonie Central High School junior Keagen Tiernan, a hands-on learning opportunity at Capital Region BOCES is helping him begin to see what his future could look like.

Though he is only a week or so into the Welding and Metal Fabrication program at Capital Region BOCES, Keagen already knows he has found something he enjoys and can envision as a career.

“I like it a lot. I definitely have chosen something I can do in the future,” Keagen said after trying his hand at cutting metal with an oxyacetylene torch.

Keagen is one of 97 students enrolled in the two-year Welding and Metal Fabrication program at Capital Region BOCES’ Career and Technical Education Center. The program, offered at the Albany and Schoharie CTE campuses, gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while developing the technical skills and knowledge needed for careers in the welding and metal fabrication industries.

Throughout the program, students learn American Welding Society standards and have opportunities to earn industry certifications. The experience can prepare students to enter the workforce directly after high school or continue their education at a college or trade school.

For Keagen, the opportunity to learn practical skills was a major reason he chose the program.

“I chose this program because it seemed like something I can do and it teaches me real skills,” he said. “I see myself working in the field.”

Through programs like Welding and Metal Fabrication, South Colonie students have opportunities to explore potential careers, discover their interests and gain valuable experience while still in high school.