Seniors from the Adirondack Educational Center visited Upstone Materials in Saranac Lake on Nov. 5. (Photo provided)

SARANAC LAKE — Seniors from the Adirondack Educational Center visited Upstone Materials in Saranac Lake on Nov. 5 to learn about local industry operations and explore potential career pathways in the construction materials field.

Upstone Materials, a construction materials company serving the Tri-Lakes region, specializes in hot-mix asphalt, aggregates and ready-mix concrete across northern New York. The company plays an essential role in maintaining the region’s infrastructure and supporting development projects that directly impact local communities.

During the visit, students from the Automotive Technology, Building Trades, Security & Law Enforcement and Natural Resource Science programs toured Upstone’s processing facilities, observed material production in action, and learned about the many different career opportunities within the company. The visit offered students a tangible connection between what they learn in their Career and Technical Education classrooms and the skills employers are seeking in today’s workforce.

“Making connections with our local businesses and industry is a huge priority at FEH BOCES,” said Kurt Munson, principal of the Adirondack Educational Center in Saranac Lake. “Giving our students exposure to local companies and industries allows them to look at various pathways they might not realize are available to them. Anytime our students learn about the needs of the community and businesses, and how they can make an impact, it’s a win-win situation.”

Field experiences like this one are designed to help students see themselves as part of the regional economy and understand the value of technical expertise, teamwork, and problem-solving. For many, these opportunities spark new interests, inspire career goals and open doors to future employment close to home.

On behalf of AEC, Munson extended his gratitude to Erinn Walker and Jon Maginn of Upstone Materials for coordinating the visit and providing students the opportunity to explore the facilities, ask questions, and connect with professionals in the field.