ROCHESTER — Students at Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School celebrated the next step of their careers with peers, parents, school staff and future employers during industry signing day on Monday, May 23. 

The event, now in its second year, recognizes students who have signed on to a full time position in their respective fields.

“As a vocational school our goal is multifaceted,” said Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School Superintendent Aaron Polansky. “Our focus as a vocational school is to celebrate the success of our students in every facet of what they do.”

According to Vocational Coordinator Bethany Botelho, the event was inspired by athletic singing days, where students commit to a sports team. 

Instead, the 28 graduating students involved with Old Colony’s co-op program announced their commitment to their future employers in fields such as automotive technology, cosmetology and metal fabrication. 

“We want to make sure that they're the whole human being,” said Polansky. “That they understand the power of relationships and the power of interactions, the importance of etiquette, [and the] expectations of employers when they step foot into the real world — this isn't a test drive, this is the real world.”

Jacob Sousa of Rochester has committed to work with his co-op employer Murphy’s Auto Salvage  for a full time position after graduation. 

“I know all the basic skills for automotive,” said Sousa, who added that he is looking forward to taking the next step in his career as an automotive technician. 

Students recognized from the Tri-Town include:

Automotive Technology

Hunter Morell, Rochester,Niemiec Marine

Jacob Sousa, Rochester, Murphy’s Auto Salvage Inc

Cosmetology

Samantha Tavares, Rochester, Drift Day Spa, Dartmouth

Health Careers

Alaysha Mendes, Rochester, Nemasket Healthcare Center

Machine & Tool Technology

Evan Stellato, Mattapoisett, Pocassett Machine Corporation