August 2005
Contact: Dorothy Wills-Raftery
(845) 255-1400 xt. 1209

Students Explored Non-Traditional Careers at Ulster BOCES Summer Program

Ulster County students entering Grades 8, 9, and 10 in September were able to explore work opportunities in non-traditional careers during the Trading Places Tech Prep Summer Program held at the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center on Route 9W in Port Ewen this summer. The unique summer camp was organized by Ulster BOCES tech prep coordinator Evelyn Torres and funded by a Federal Tech Prep grant.

The Trading Places Tech Prep Summer Program is a free summer camp where interested Ulster County students learn nontraditional gender occupations. During the two-week session, 42 students participated in hands-on workshops, created career plans, and met experts in non-traditional job roles. Work experiences for girls included Web Design, Computer Design/Welding, Auto Technology, Computer Repair, and Culinary Arts. Boys explored their options in Early Childhood Development and Healthcare careers.

According to Torres, “Trading Places increases awareness of non-traditional jobs and eliminates stereotyping in education and career choices. Students have the unique opportunity to explore and learn about non-traditional careers while engaging in fun, hands-on projects. They also meet fascinating role models.”