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Options Abound For BVT Students
With
dozens of employers and admissions personnel vying to recruit them during the
school's recent College and Career Fair, students at Blackstone Valley Tech
received a firsthand look at their many opportunities in the modern workforce,
military, and higher education.
This
year's event was the first in which Valley Tech combined its previously
independent college and career fairs. Under the new model, nearly 100 business
and industry representatives, U.S. military recruitment officers, and
admissions personnel from some of New England's finest colleges, universities,
and training institutions came together in the school's Competition Center to
meet with students. It was the first visit to Valley Tech for Dean College
Admissions Counselor Tenley Sodeur, who quickly noticed that college and
employment are far from exclusive pathways for Valley Tech students.
"The students are so career-focused, which is great," Sodeur commented. "They want to know what kind of boost a college education can give to their careers."
Shane Ross, Service Warranty Manager at United Home Experts, said that his company is on the lookout for young, capable employees interested in the home improvement field. The BVT College and Career Fair, according to Ross, presented the perfect opportunity to access a pipeline to high-skill workers.
"As a local employer, it's great to have this chance to find local
talent," Ross said, noting that students came prepared with thoughtful
questions and formal resumes.
Many students employed
part-time through the Valley Tech Cooperative Education program (co-op)
participated in the College and Career Fair on behalf of their co-op employers.
Health Services senior Samantha Cella of Northbridge represented Uxbridge
Orthopedic & Sports Therapy, where she has gained valuable real-world
experience toward her goal of becoming a physical therapist. Plumbing senior
Corinne Boisseau of Blackstone represented her employer, Rodenhiser Plumbing
& HVAC, where she plans on accepting an offer of full-time employment
following May's graduate.
"I'm definitely looking to stay and grow with this company," Boisseau said. "Everyone is there to do a good job and do quality work."
The fair's participating
employers also included several Valley Tech graduates who returned to their
alma mater to share their stories and advice. Crystal Brule, a 2013 Cosmetology
graduate originally from Douglas, spoke with students about her experience
working for the Spa Tech Institute, where she was hired after demonstrating her
knowledge of the beauty industry, technical skills, and ability to communicate
effectively with the public.
"I have a great job.
I'm twenty-one years old and I support myself," Brule said, crediting
Valley Tech with preparing her for the workforce. "Coming to Valley Tech
was the bst decision I ever made. It's an awesome school."