Hinchey Delivers State Grant to Questar III BOCES for Heavy Equipment and Repair Operation Program

DURHAM, NY – Senator Michelle Hinchey has secured a $169,000 state grant for Questar III BOCES to support its Heavy Equipment and Repair Operation program, one of the most popular career and technical education (CTE) offerings in Columbia and Greene counties. The appropriation delivered by Hinchey has been used to purchase two heavy equipment training simulators that will prepare students to operate a variety of machinery used in the construction trades while maximizing educational opportunities by allowing for full-year training into the winter months when hands-on outdoor training is limited. The grant funding was secured through the Local Community Assistance Program administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).

Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Our local BOCES are shaping New York's next generation of skilled tradespeople and providing direct pathways into the middle class with jobs for the future. I am incredibly proud to deliver a $169,000 state grant to help Questar III BOCES purchase heavy equipment training simulators that will teach students the real-life skills they need to be immediately hireable in the construction trades right after graduation. We have to keep our BOCES programs strong, and it’s an absolute privilege to support Questar III and the exciting career paths that await our next generation here in Columbia and Greene counties.”

Dr. Gladys I. Cruz, District Superintendent of Questar III BOCES, said, “Questar III is thankful to Senator Hinchey for securing funds to purchase simulators for the Heavy Equipment Operations and Maintenance Program serving students from school districts across Greene and Columbia counties. These simulators help students gain the necessary skills to become proficient operators of heavy equipment to gain meaningful employment in companies in the region.”

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