H-ton Students Explore Engineering & Renewable Energy Careers

Huntington High School engineering and technology students recently had an exciting opportunity to explore careers in engineering, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing during a field trip to Suffolk County Community College’s western campus Brentwood.

Accompanied by physics and engineering teacher Hunter Wheeler-Cooney and technology teacher Omar Santiago, students visited the National Offshore Wind Training Center, where they gained firsthand insight into the specialized training, technology, and safety certifications required for careers in the offshore wind energy industry.

During the visit, students toured the training and certification facilities, including a model of the interior of a wind turbine. They learned about the safety procedures offshore workers must follow, observed equipment used to transfer personnel from ships to elevated platforms, and explored the training pool used to simulate emergency situations at sea.

Students also participated in an informative presentation highlighting career pathways in renewable energy, offshore wind technology, and the certifications needed to enter these growing fields.

The experience continued with a tour of the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center, where students explored additional opportunities in engineering, technology, and skilled trades.

“The field trip provided a valuable connection between classroom learning and real-world applications, allowing students to see how the concepts they study in their engineering and technology courses translate into exciting career opportunities,” Chairperson of Science Danielle Raguzin said.

Messrs. Wheeler-Cooney and Santiago expressed their appreciation for the engaging, student-friendly presentations and the enthusiasm generated by the experience. Students left with a greater interest in wind turbines, renewable energy, and the many educational and certification pathways available through Suffolk County Community College.

The visit also marked an exciting continuation of Huntington's longstanding relationship with the Composite Prototyping Center. Huntington students previously participated in educational visits to the center's former Plainview facility through 2019.

Following changes in ownership and the center’s relocation to the Cradle of Aviation Museum, the partnership was temporarily paused. Through the collaborative efforts of Mrs. Raguzin and district family member Raymond Farrell, Huntington UFSD recently reconnected with the organization, opening the door to renewed opportunities for students to explore engineering, technology, and emerging career pathways.

“A special thank you to Phil Rugile, executive director of the Institute for Workforce Advancement and Composite Prototyping Center, for his assistance in coordinating transportation funding to help make this experience possible, Mrs. Raguzin said. “The department also thanks Suffolk County Community College, the National Offshore Wind Training Center and the knowledgeable presenters who provided such an engaging and informative experience.”

The district is looking forward to strengthening these partnerships and providing students with additional opportunities to explore innovative technologies, connect classroom learning to real-world applications, and discover exciting possibilities for their futures.