Suffolk Reporter

Seven William Floyd High School students participated in Stony Brook University’s inaugural “A Taste of the Trades” program this past summer. The initiative provided hands-on learning experiences aimed at preparing students for careers in construction, clean-energy production, and infrastructure development while introducing them to job opportunities supporting sustainability.

The curriculum was divided into three key areas. For two weeks, students focused on solar power and energy storage at Brookhaven National Laboratory, gaining insights into sustainable energy technologies. They then spent another two weeks at Stony Brook University exploring offshore wind energy and power-grid operations. This segment concluded with a NYSERDA-led Offshore Wind Open House and Apprenticeship Event, offering networking opportunities with potential employers.

In the third part of the program, students visited Suffolk County Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing Center to learn advanced manufacturing techniques such as soldering, welding, and CVC machining. Field trips during the final week included visits to Haugland Group’s headquarters and the National Grid Northport Power Plant.

Participants were paid $16 per hour for their involvement in the program. The summer concluded with a graduation ceremony at Stony Brook University’s Center of Excellence in Wireless and Information Technology. Students detailed their experiences and received certificates marking their successful completion of the program.

DeMarco Campbell, a junior from William Floyd High School, highlighted his favorite aspect of the program: hands-on learning about welding. He plans to pursue a career in underwater welding as a result of his experience.

William Floyd High School student participants included Aiden Burgos, DeMarco Campbell, Malaki Daniels, Ryan Hugo, Anthony McDonald, Jordyn Novotny, and Raymond Ringgold III.

Special thanks were extended to partners including Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Suffolk County Community College, Suffolk County Department of Labor Licensing and Consumer Affairs; The Haugland Group LLC; New York Power Authority (NYPA); New York State Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA); Orsted; Whymaker; and National Grid Offshore Wind. Gratitude was also expressed towards Allison Wiegand from William Floyd High School's Career and Technical Education (CTE) department; Robert Felicetta from William Floyd School District; advisor Steven Rendino for their contributions throughout the summer.