HFM PTECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) celebrated its 10th Year Anniversary on Wednesday, Oct. 16 with a ceremony at The Allen House located on the SUNY FMCC campus. Past and present staff, alumni, organization administrators, business partners and community members gathered to reflect on the past ten years and look ahead to the future of PTECH.
Dr. David Ziskin, HFM District Superintendent speaks at PTECH’s 10 Year anniversary celebration.
“The success of PTECH is a testament to the people that are so invested in this program and the amazing impact they have on our students and the community,” said HFM BOCES District Superintendent, David Ziskin.
Partnerships was the word of the day at this celebratory event, with speakers focusing on the importance of regional collaboration and its integral role in building a program like PTECH.
“PTECH is a program that has truly transformed educational opportunities in our region,” said Greg Truckenmiller, SUNY FMCC President. “This milestone is not just a celebration of the program itself, but of the incredible partnerships that have been the driving force behind its success.”
Students attending PTECH work towards their 2-year degree from SUNY FMCC or SUNY Cobleskill (depending on the degree pathway) at no cost to their families. HFM PTECH also partners with The Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce to provide professional skills training, workplace tours and internships, all which offer a real-life perspective and better prepare students to enter the workforce.
HFM completer Marcos Santiago commented on how PTECH helped him explore what he was meant to do.
“I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without PTECH,” said Santiago. “During my time there I discovered I love solving problems and decided to become an engineer. I can say for certain that because of PTECH I have turned out to be a role model and mentor for others.”
Fellow completer Natalie May says she came out of the program a different person.
“I now stand before you as a confident critical thinker, communicator and leader. PTECH was my foundation and gave me the space to grow into who I was meant to be,” said May.
HFM PTECH is a 6-year program that incorporates project based learning and professional skills training as students work towards their degree. Students enter the program in ninth grade with applications due in March, and notices of acceptance sent in May of the previous year. To learn more about PTECH visit, https://www.hfmboces.org/programs-services/ptech/
