Pine Bush High School senior Talon Sprague has taken a big step toward his future.

Talon was accepted into the Carpenters Local Union 279 Pre-Apprenticeship Program, one of only eight individuals in the Hudson Valley to be accepted into the program.

“Talon was accepted in the local carpenters union pre-apprenticeship program because he puts in the extra time,” said Dave Gibaldi, who teaches wood processing, architecture, and drawing and design for production, to the group gathered to celebrate Talon’s acceptance. “They recognize his hard work.”

 

 

“I’m so proud of this young man for the decisions he is making,” said Bill D’Attore, the training coordinator for Local 279. “He chose this by being a part of this here,” he added looking around the wood shop.

 

“Not all schools have what you have here,” he added.

 

 

 

For years, Principal Aaron Hopmayer has encouraged students to consider skilled trades as a career path. Pine Bush High School is home to the Hass Innovation Center, thanks in large part to Hopmayer’s passion and the support of our current and past administrators and boards of education, providing opportunities for all students.

 

Matt Ross, president of Carpenters Local Union 279, called Talon one of “the best of the best.”

 

 

 

“Trades are not a second choice,” Ross said. “It’s a first choice. Talon is one of eight from the Hudson Valley accepted to this program. It’s not a gimme. We are looking for the best of the best. Talon was one of the highest ones scored in the interview process.”

 

D’Attore and Ross  talked to the students in the room about the free training and education available to them through the union if they want to get into the construction industry.

“Get what you’re worth! Get a livable wage and work in a safe environment. Start planning for your future. We want the best,” said Ross.

 

Talon talked to the group, as well, explaining that for his first two years in high school, he took college classes but realized it’s not what he wanted to do.

“I experimented with other stuff, then took this class (wood processing),” said Talon, with his mom Kara Sprague, a PBHS science teacher, looking on. “It was fun and I liked it. The carpenters union came in and I was interested. I’m grateful for this opportunity.”

 

Talon already started the pre-apprenticeship program two nights a week and Saturdays. He is well on his way to his future!