On September 3, 2020, Employment Training for Adults (ETA) held graduation ceremonies for their Machine Tool Technology students at the Southern Adirondack Education Center in Hudson Falls. In order to ensure comfort and follow CDC guidelines two ceremonies were held that night allowing students to include their families and friends. The class was split in two and during their scheduled time, they were giving congratulations from Dr. Turina Parker, Executive Director for Educational and Support Programs, and their instructor Jason Viele. The students were then presented with their certificates and then showed their families around the classroom.
To be considered and chosen for the program, students must apply to the program, which includes conducted interviews by representatives from the machine tool industry. To graduate, they must complete 500 hours and certain competencies. The program was designed for adults who are interested in entering the machine tool trade and introduces basic skills and mathematics related to machine shop theory. The class is a mixture of lecture and practical shop experience where students gain the necessary skills to enter the industry. This program was developed to address the current and anticipated need for machinists in specialty machine shops across the region as well as in companies engaged in advanced manufacturing. Local employers designed the program in collaboration with the Saratoga Warren Washington Workforce Development Board and WSWHE BOCES.
Jason Viele, main instructor stated, “Your skills make a difference in almost every area of industry. From suites to machinery, you make the world a better place.” Dr. Turina Parker stated, “Your commitment and drive are something to be proud of.”
ETA and WSWHE BOCES want to congratulate the graduates!
To see more photos from the graduation, visit our Facebook page by clicking here.
*CDC guidelines were followed. Any images where people appear too close without a mask were the graduates' immediate family.