ASSEMBLY LINE
BOCES programs join to create parade float for submarine vets
ALBANY, N.Y. >> Work is well underway at the Capital Region BOCES Career and Technical School on a new submarine for an area veteran’s group.
Students in the construction services program have built the skeleton for a submarine float that will be used by the Albany-Saratoga chapter of United States Submarine Veterans in parades and for educational purposes. The organization turned to BOCES last fall for assistance after its current float was found to be unsuitable for parades because of its condition.
“It’s starting to rot and come apart in some areas,” Bill Preece, a member of submarine veterans organization said at the time. “We were looking for someone to restore it for us, and someone recommended BOCES.”
Students created a new wooden frame for the submarine recently, and woodwork will likely continue through next week. Once that work is completed, the vessel will then be turned over to the center’s auto body program for painting before being moved to the welding shop, where students will create and install railings. The goal, according to carpentry services teacher Paul Roberts, is to have the submarine parade-worthy by Memorial Day.
James Haas, work-based learning coordinator for the center, said the project is perfect for providing hands-on learning opportunities for students, while also teaching the value of giving back to the community and honoring those who have served our country.
“It’s a fantastic project,” Haas said. “Students from several programs are involved. It teaches the kids not just about the technical skills they are learning, but about the value of good citizenship.”