JACOB ABERS is a junior in the Carpentry program. He began working for Bob Cummins Construction last summer and continued through the school year via co-op. Jacob enjoys learning carpentry skills that prepare him for a wide range of projects. After high school, he plans either to attend college to play football or to enter the workforce and earn his CDL. He intends to return to Cummins this summer and continue co-op there during his senior year. Jacob values his experience at Cummins, where he appreciates the supportive environment and the opportunity to learn something new every day.

SARRAH COX is a senior in the Marketing program. She chose to enroll in marketing because she wanted to learn about all of the different career paths related to business. Sarrah did co-op placements at Bradford Ecumenical Home and the YMCA.

Her favorite aspect of the co-op program was the opportunity to use time that might have otherwise been spent in study hall to gain real-world work experience, earn income and develop skills that will serve her well in the future. The co-op program allowed Sarrah to bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application, enhancing her learning experience. After graduation, Sarrah plans to enter the workforce, with the ultimate goal of owning her own business.

MALLORY CRAIG is a senior in the Marketing program who gained valuable work experience through her employment at Gleason Construction. While employed there, she tracked inventory, invoiced bills, input finances, submitted payroll and completed various other administrative tasks.

Her favorite aspect of the job was the opportunity to gain real-world experience that will benefit her in any career she chooses to pursue. Mallory opted to participate in the co-op program because it allowed her to maintain a job without interfering with her academic responsibilities or athletic commitments, unlike a typical part-time job. After graduation, she plans to attend Alfred State College to major in veterinary technology, with the long-term goal of opening her own veterinary practice.