For Tamarac senior Destiny Brennan and Rensselaer senior Areonna Thomas, the Questar III/BOCES program in Troy is a chance to get hands-on experience with heavy machinery.

"I’ve learned how to operate so many machines," Brennan said. "I've learned how to take apart a diesel engine."

What You Need To Know

  • Questar/III BOCES serves three counties, with plans to serve three more in the fall

  • The program offers education in jobs deemed essential

  • Students get a chance to learn outside a traditional school setting

For Thomas, it's a chance to get a different kind of education that's not in a traditional school setting.

"Learning here has been so helpful," she said. "As long as you put effort into it, you'll get something out of it. It's always nice to have options. Being here has given me some [options], to go out into the work force or go to college and study them."

The students are urging others to give the program a try.

"You have a great work environment. It's getting you ready for the work field. What more could you want?” Brennan said.

"It wasn't something I thought I'd enjoy, but as soon as you get here, it's very welcoming,” Thomas noted. “It's like operating big toys."

The program is also set to expand by fall. The goal is to service three more counties for a total of 46 area school districts.