Pictured is the graduating class including Salvador Casares, Elias Dowdy, Danaht Geiogamah, Kelvin George, Mannox Jamieson, Damian John, David John, Quentin Kennedy, Caleb Maloney, Deandra Parker, Louis Romero, Devin Schindler and Mitchell Stevens.

IRVING — The Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES (E2CCB) Adult Education construction program, in collaboration with the Seneca Training Center, recently celebrated a historic graduation ceremony honoring 13 graduates. Held at the Cattaraugus Community Center in Irving, N.Y., the event marked the program’s largest graduating class to date.

The partnership between E2CCB and the Seneca Nation has been a cornerstone of community and workforce development for nearly a decade. This collaboration combines hands-on construction training with certifications that prepare students for seamless transitions into union positions or employment with the Seneca Nation.

“Our students are educated in the basics of three trades,” explained Larry Kestner, an E2CCB educator with four years of experience in the Adult Education program. “They also earn certifications in OSHA, forklift operation, scaffolding, flagging, plumbing, and confined spaces. These credentials, along with their BOCES certification, enable graduates to move directly into the workforce.”

Throughout the program, students gain practical experience by working on meaningful community projects, such as repairing Seneca Nation Elders’ housing, improving handicap accessibility, and enhancing infrastructure within the Seneca Nation.

The graduation ceremony drew attendees from across the community, including the graduates’ families, members of the Seneca Nation Cabinet, E2CCB instructors, and representatives from various trade unions that partner with the program. James Styres, a construction program instructor, offered words of encouragement to the graduates during the event.

“How do you better prepare yourself for life ahead? It is in the daily decisions, the small consistent actions, and the relentless commitment to the goals that shape your future,” Styres said.

“You will need to have discipline, focus, and attention to detail.”

Following the formal ceremony, a reception was held to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2024.

The graduating class included Salvador Casares, Elias Dowdy, Danaht Geiogamah, Kelvin George, Mannox Jamieson, Damian John, David John, Quentin Kennedy, Caleb Maloney, Deandra Parker, Louis Romero, Devin Schindler, and Mitchell Stevens.

E2CCB’s partnership with the Seneca Nation underscores its commitment to fostering educational opportunities and workforce development in the region. The achievements of these graduates reflect the program’s dedication to creating meaningful pathways for success. For more information on E2CCB Adult Education programming, visit www.e2ccb.org.