Career & Technical School Program
(formerly Vo-Tec)

Career & Technical School programs provide education for the development of occupational skills and aptitudes so that each individual may be properly educated as a competent worker and a responsible citizen. The aims of Career & Tech education are:
• To acquire skills for employment
• To provide practical experience while learning
• To prepare for further trade, technical and/or advanced training
• To provide credit toward graduation from high school
• To appreciate the world of work
• To earn early college credits

Students receive four credits for each year of successful study in a Career & Tech program. They also can earn college credit through some programs.

Career & Tech programs are offered at two different campuses: Albany area and Saratoga. The Albany campus is located in Colonie on Watervliet-Shaker Road (Rt. 155), about 15 minutes from Niskayuna High School. This campus has two sessions: the first uses Mods 1-5; the second uses 5-8. The Saratoga (Myers) Center programs are only in the morning and use Mods 1-5. Students cannot always have the session they want, although efforts will be made to honor their choices. Transportation is arranged so the student can take up to four courses at Niskayuna as well as the Career & Tech course. Students are allowed to enroll in the Saratoga program only if the Albany campus does not teach the course the student wants.

A decision to enter a Career & Tech program should be made carefully. Niskayuna is committed to pay tuition for students who take these courses. It is not always possible to provide other courses to replace a Career & Tech course dropped once the school year is underway. For these reasons, the student, parents and counselor should consider all the issues before deciding on a specific program.

Students are urged to visit the appropriate programs and campuses to help them understand the courses that are offered before they decide to attend. Students must fill out an application and have it signed by their parents and counselors before they are enrolled in a Career & Tech program.

Courses
The following are the different courses offered in Career & Tech education. The guidance counselors have more information about each program. The name of the campus where the course is offered (Albany or Saratoga) appears after the course name.

7505 AUTO BODY COLLISION (Albany)
7510 AUTO BODY REFINISHING (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
Auto Body Collision and Auto Body Refinishing are two stand-alone courses with no prerequisites. They include instruction in repairing, refinishing and painting damaged vehicles. Hands-on experience prepares students for entry-level positions in the auto body field. Students can also earn college credits through an agreement with Hudson Valley Community College.

7515 AUTOMOTIVE TRADES TECHNOLOGY I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7517 AUTOMOTIVE TRADES TECHNOLOGY II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This is a one- or two-year program that will prepare the students to work on a variety of vehicles. Students will learn to locate mechanical problems through careful diagnosis and perform the necessary repairs using modern test equipment and tools. This type of hands on experience and instruction prepares students for entry-level employment in the automotive technology field.

7520 AUTOMOTIVE TRADES TECHNOLOGY TECH PREP (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grade 12
This is a one-year accelerated program for seniors that combines applied academics and work experiences in the automotive field. Internships at local businesses are an important part of this program. Students are jointly enrolled in Career & Tech and at Hudson Valley Community College and can earn up to 12 credits toward an associate’s degree.
Prerequisites: Math 9, 10 or Tech Prep Math, three years of English and two years of science

7525 AYES AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN (Albany) – 1/2 DAY
2 years, 4 credits, Grade 11-12
7530 AYES AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN (Albany) – FULL DAY
2 years, 8 credits, Grade 11-12
Learn the basics of automotive technology in your junior and senior years of high school while receiving paid work experience at a sponsoring local automotive dealership. Upon graduating you can go on to study at the college level while gaining even more extensive on-the-job experience. The program is ASE/NATEF certified and is supported by General Motors, Chrysler, and other manufacturers. Students are prepared to test for ASE certification when they complete the program and will receive college credits, putting them in advanced standing to pursue an associate’s degree. A tool scholarship program offers students ownership of a starter set of tools at a dramatically discounted price. The full-day AYES automotive technician program puts all the academics you need to graduate in the context of your automotive course work.
Prerequisites: Math Course I Regents
For admission, students must complete an application and interview process

7535 BUILDING TRADES I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7537 BUILDING TRADES II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This one- or two-year program is designed for young people who wish to enter the building trades field as carpenters. It includes methods and procedures for dwelling construction, operation of machines, safety, hand tools, trade theory, related math and blueprint reading. Students work on small construction jobs along with full-size live experience in constructing, repairing and remodeling. Students may be required to travel from school grounds to off-site construction. Through an agreement with SUNY Delhi, students may enter college in advanced standing upon completion of course requirements.

7540 COMPUTER-AIDED MANUFACTURING I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7542 COMPUTER-AIDED MANUFACTURING II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
In this one- or two-year program students will have the opportunity to study the latest manufacturing techniques being used by industry today in a diversified program covering industrial computer applications, numerically controlled systems, computerized drafting and robotics. Students completing the program may continue their education or find work in high-tech industries. Students also can earn college credits through agreements with Hudson Valley Community College and SUNY Delhi.

7545 COMPUTER-AIDED MANUFACTURING TECH PREP (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grade 12
Tech Prep is a program of study designed to offer seniors an accelerated program in the Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing fields through related instruction in the areas of math, science, communication and technology. Students work on state-of-the-art, industry-standard equipment under the direction of faculty who have experience in the field. Through the accelerated Tech Prep curriculum, students discover how important theories go hand-in-hand with practical applications. Through partnerships with local businesses, students may spend a portion of their time at a work site, making the connection between school and the manufacturing industry. Tech Prep students can also earn up to eight credits toward their associate’s degree while still in high school through agreements with HVCC, SUNY Delhi and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.

7550 CARE AND TRAINING OF STANDARDBRED HORSES (Saratoga)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
Students will learn the complete care of the standardbred horse, without assistance of outside help, except for veterinarian and blacksmith assistance. The course will include training, handling, feeding, grooming and driving, in addition to stable management and tack room experience. The setting for classroom and related “live” instruction are facilities made available at the Saratoga Raceway in cooperation with the Raceway and Northeastern Harness Horsemen’s Association. This is a one-year course.

7553 CHILDREN & EDUCATION CAREER ACADEMY (at Cobleskill-Richmondville High School)
2 years, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This full-day program is located at Cobleskill-Richmondville High School, where students take all their academic and career and technical coursework. This program is designed for students going on to college to become preschool or elementary school teachers or professionals in child and family sciences. Students also earn college credit through SUNY Cobleskill.

7555 CNT: COMPUTER TECHNICIAN (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
7557 CNT: NETWORK TECHNICIAN (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This program, offered as either a half-day or full-day course, features a state-of-the-art computer and network lab and prepares students to either pursue more advanced training or directly enter the workforce. Students are prepared to test for professional certification as an A+ Certified Computer Service Technician, N+ Network Technician, BICSI Wiring Technician, S+ Server Technician and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Students can earn up to nine college credits through agreements with Schenectady County Community College, Fulton-Montgomery Community College, ITT, SUNY Cobleskill and HVCC’s College in High School program.

7560 COMPUTER APPLICATIONS (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
This one-year program provides theory and practice in various business applications including word processing, electronic spreadsheets, data base, desktop publishing, record keeping/accounting and multi-media. Students can earn up to six college credits through agreements with Schenectady County Community College and Hudson Valley Community College.

7562 WEB DESIGN (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
In Web Design, students learn how to design and update Web sites using a variety of software, including HTML, FrontPage, GoLive, LiveMotion and Illustrator. They also produce brochures and newsletters using Publisher.

7565 CONSERVATION I (Saratoga)
7567 CONSERVATION II (Saratoga)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
Students will develop skills and acquire the necessary knowledge in light industrial equipment operation and maintenance, forestry, soil, water and wildlife conservation, outdoor recreation and park management. Students will also be involved in forest and woodlot improvement, logging, chain saw operation, dozer operation, back hoe operation, and other operations associated with soil and water conservation. This is a one- or two-year course.

7570 COSMETOLOGY I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7572 COSMETOLOGY II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
(TWO YEARS AND SUMMER SCHOOL REQUIRED)
This program offers theory and practical experience to assure that students receive a complete and balanced training in all phases of this most interesting and challenging occupational field. The Cosmetology classroom is fully equipped with facilities and equipment as one would find in a modern salon. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the New York State Licensing exam. There is a cost to each student of approximately $35 for supplies. Students can earn college credit in Ethics through an agreement with Schenectady County Community College.

7575 CULINARY ARTS AND HOSPITALITY I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7577 CULINARY ARTS AND HOSPITALITY II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
The Culinary Arts and Hospitality program is designed to provide students with a foundation in the preparation and service of foods ranging from American to classical cuisine. Areas of emphasis include meats, poultry, seafood, soups, stocks, sauces, salads, appetizers and beverages. Students will also have the opportunity to learn short order, grill work and banquet catering. The course can be taken for one or two years. Students can earn up to three college credits through an agreement with Schenectady County Community College.

7580 CULINARY ARTS TECH PREP (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grade 12
This program is designed to offer seniors a solid foundation in the culinary arts field through related instruction in the areas of math, science, communications and technology. With an accelerated curriculum, students work with faculty who have industry experience to discover how important theories go hand-in-hand with practical applications. Tech Prep prepares students to earn an associate’s degree as well as for professional careers in the hospitality field. Students are enrolled in both Career & Tech and college programs and earn up to 15 credits toward their degree. Through Career & Tech’s partnership with high schools, colleges and local businesses, students are familiarized with career options.
Prerequisites: Math I or Tech Prep Math, Keyboarding or Introduction to Computers, Biology or Chemistry, and three years of high school English.

7585 MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY TRUCK REPAIR I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7587 MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY TRUCK REPAIR II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This nationally-certified course provides instruction in all phases of maintenance and repair work on engines used to power buses, automobiles, trucks, railroad trains, electrical generators, construction machinery and similar equipment. Units of study include: shop safety, disassembly and assembly, troubleshooting procedures, testing methods, engine maintenance, fuels and lubricants, metal-working tools and precision measuring instruments. This course may be taken for one or two years. Students may earn college credit through agreements with SUNY Cobleskill and SUNY Morrisville.

7590 EARLY CHILD EDUCATION I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7592 EARLY CHILD EDUCATION II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
This is a one- or two-year program designed to provide training in the theories and concepts of health, safety and nutrition of the young child. The curriculum is intended to help potential child care workers and teachers assist young children in developing good habits, attitudes and responsibility. The program includes clinical experience in kindergarten and/or a child care center. This program is designed for students who want to become preschool or elementary teachers. Students can earn up to seven college credits through an agreement with SUNY Cobleskill and enter in advanced standing through an agreement with Schenectady County Community College.

7600 ELECTRICAL TRADES I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7602 ELECTRICAL TRADES II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This program prepares students for entry-level employment in all aspects of the electrical field. Specific training will be given in the areas in which the student shows strongest aptitude. Major topics of study include: use of tools, equipment and measuring instruments, basic electrical theory, residential wiring, AC motors, DC motors, transformer motor control, EMT and conduit installation, underwriter’s code, blueprint reading, electrical heating and lighting, basic electronics, and appliance installation and repair. This is a one- or two-year program. Students can earn up to five college credits through agreements with SUNY Delhi, Hudson Valley Community College, and Pima Community College in Arizona.

7605 FASHION MERCHANDISING I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7607 RETAIL MANAGEMENT II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
This is a one- or two-year program that covers a broad spectrum of fashion as it exists in retailing today. It will bring into focus the applied artistry of fashion merchandising with all the excitement and modern-day appeal that goes along with it. There are many areas of employment opportunity within the fashion industry, including retailing, manufacturing and wholesaling. Students completing the program will be qualified for entry-level employment or to continue on to college. Seniors may enroll directly into year 2, Retail Management. Students may enter college in advanced standing through agreements with Schenectady County Community College, Herkimer County Community College and the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising in Manhattan.

7610 HVAC/R/HEATING, REFRIGERATION & PLUMBING I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7612 HVAC/R/HEATING, REFRIGERATION & PLUMBING II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This one- or two-year program teaches the skills and technical knowledge required for entry-level employment in this rewarding field. Units of instruction include heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, heat pumps and reverse cycle systems, heat loss and cooling load calculations, electrical circuit troubleshooting and repair, and solar energy. Students participate in highly individualized lab projects. Students can earn up to four college credits through an agreement with Hudson Valley Community College and enter college in advanced standing through agreements with SUNY Delhi, Pima Community College in Tucson, Arizona, and the University of Northeastern Ohio.

7615 HEAVY EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE (Saratoga)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
Students enrolled in this course (one or two years) will be exposed to the theory and general mechanics of internal combustion engines, including gas and diesel engines and hydraulic systems. Assembly, repair and general maintenance of agricultural and heavy equipment is included. Emphasis is also placed on both gas and arc welding.

7617 FLORAL DESIGN I (ALBANY)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7618 FLORAL DESIGN II (ALBANY)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
The Floral Design program uses multiple settings to prepare students for employment, including an on-campus flower shop, community sites and area businesses, regional flower shows and competitions. Students in this half-day program gain hands-on experience in the artistic and business aspects of floral design and create arrangements and designs for actual customers. Students may enter college in advanced standing through an agreement with SUNY Delhi. Students completing this course may enter the workforce or pursue further study.

7645 LODGING MANAGEMENT
1 year, 4 credits, Grade 12
Lodging Management is a one-year program for seniors seeking careers in the operation or management of hotels, motels, resorts, clubs and the lodging industry. This program is offered to students who have completed the first year of Culinary Arts & Hospitality Technology or to seniors who desire a management program. Students complete an internship during the summer following their senior year; this requirement, however, will not impede their ability to graduate on time. Lodging Management prepares students to enter higher level positions in the industry or to continue their studies at college.

7630 NURSE ASSISTANT (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
This one-year course is designed to prepare students to function in several assistant-level occupations in the health field. Topics include orientation to the healthcare industry, its workers and environments, basic structure and function of the human body, disease prevention and control, medical ethics, growth and development, nutrition and healthcare procedures. Clinical experiences are provided in area healthcare facilities. Students are prepared for the NYS licensing exam for nurse assistant. There is a cost to each student of approximately $50 for a uniform and shoes. Students can earn college credit through an agreement with Schenectady County Community College.

7640 CRIMINAL JUSTICE I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
7642 CRIMINAL JUSTICE II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This program (one or two years) focuses on civil and criminal law, emergency tactics, patrol functions, crime prevention and detention techniques, polygraph techniques, fingerprinting, investigation methods, client contact, and business management. Possible job placement opportunities available upon completion include entry-level security, hotel/motel security and industrial security. Students can earn up to three college credits through an agreement with Schenectady County Community College.

7650 THEATRE ARTS TECHNOLOGY I
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
Theatre Arts Technology builds students’ understanding of and appreciation for theatre as a recreational, cultural and aesthetic force. Students will learn about technical aspects of theatrical production, including design interpretation, tools and equipment, building materials, construction and painting techniques, and stage lighting equipment and procedures. Students will also have opportunities for related internships. Students completing Theatre Arts Technology are prepared to continue their studies at a two-or four-year postsecondary program.

7665 WELDING & METAL FABRICATION I (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 10-12
7667 WELDING & METAL FABRICATION II (Albany)
1 year, 4 credits, Grades 11-12
This program (one or two years) offers both related and practical experience in the art of modern day welding techniques. Units of study include the theory of welding, metals, various types of welding, production and fabrication. Experience is provided in the use of all equipment, ferrous and nonferrous metals, cutting and brazing, soldering and metal fabrication. Students can earn up to six college credits through agreements with SUNY Delhi and Pima Community College in Arizona.

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