Sparks fly as metal meets torch - sending out a signature sound that’s become music to Bryant Patterson’s ears. For this Maine-Endwell senior, learning extends far beyond the classroom, opening doors to opportunities he never imagined. Long after the final bell rings at the high school, Bryant can be found under a welding mask, putting in the hard work as his passion for the trade - and a promising career path - begins to take shape.
Bryant is enrolled in the Broome-Tioga BOCES Career & Technical Education (CTE) Welding program, where students spend part of their school day learning the fundamentals of welding, fabrication, and metalworking. For this Class of 2026 member, the experience has already expanded to much more.
Through a competitive co-op opportunity, Bryant was one of just two students selected for a welding position at KLAW Industries in Binghamton. KLAW Industries was founded in 2019 by Electrical Engineer Jack Lamuraglia, Mechanical Engineer Tanner Wallis, and Mechanical Engineer Jacob Kumpon with the goal of solving tangible problems for recyclers and concrete producers. Their mission is to create material solutions for the concrete and recycling industries, focusing on developing materials that benefit users and keep the cost burden off of producers. Bryant is now part of that mission.
"As a young company growing here, there’s a lot of opportunities for people going into the trades to work on real innovations happening here. Bryant has been a great addition to KLAW and seeing how the rest of the team has helped him find a career he's excited about has been one of the best parts of our journey so far," said Jacob Kumpon of KLAW Industries.
On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, the M-E senior heads to KLAW during his afternoon school day. Once his scheduled class time ends, he continues working part-time until 6 P.M., gaining valuable hands-on experience alongside professionals in the field. After graduation, the position will transition into a full-time job.
Bryant says his interest in welding started with the possibilities the trade offers.
“What initially drew me to welding was the creativity and versatility of the trade, and that what you can create is really limitless. For example, here at KLAW, we're using what we actually learned at BOCES to better recycle glass, and that's really cool,” said Patterson
Bryant says stepping outside the classroom and gaining first-hand experience in a field he’s interested in has been invaluable.
“What I enjoy most about working and learning the trades is how every day is hands-on, and you get to be a part of the outcome you're producing. Every day we're learning something new and pushing the boundaries of our skills,” said Patterson.
Programs like welding through BOCES give our students the opportunity to explore career paths while still in high school - often allowing them to enter the workforce with valuable experience and without the burden of student loans. Bryant says that’s one of the biggest advantages.
“It's awesome to have a job right after school. I still get to learn and grow, but even in high school, I was able to get paid while becoming a better fabricator,” said Patterson.
For students who may not have considered a career in the trades, Bryant has a simple message: keep an open mind.
“For those who haven't considered it, I recommend giving it a chance. You'll be surprised by just how much fun it is to be doing something new every day. It really does have endless possibilities and careers it can take you.”
Bryant’s experience highlights the growing importance of skilled trades and the opportunities available to students who pursue them. Through programs like BOCES CTE, students can graduate with industry-ready skills, real-world experience, and in some cases, like Bryant, a career already underway.