Sophomores students recently got a firsthand look at the many career pathways they could pursue during a visit to the Capital Region BOCES Career & Technical Education (CTE) Center in Albany. Students toured the campus, met faculty and current CTE students, and even tried out hands-on activities in programs such as Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Pet Tech, and Health Careers. 

“I have always wanted to work in a kitchen myself,” said student Graciana Willis as she practiced food prep alongside a Culinary Arts student.

Others explored careers in animal care, hairstyling, and healthcare, learning practical skills and seeing how those skills can translate directly into real-world jobs.

“I am interested in this program because of the opportunities it provides after high school,” said Cristin Constante while participating in a health careers lab.

Career and technical education is a flexible pathway that can lead directly to the workforce, support future college studies, or help students gain life skills to pay for higher education. At Capital Region BOCES, more than 70% of CTE students go on to pursue higher education, while others graduate ready for in-demand careers with strong technical skills.

Enrollment is currently underway for the 2026-27 school year for students interested in the many programs BOCES offers.