Students in the Outdoor Power Equipment and Powersports Technology program at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES were recently afforded a wonderful opportunity to network with an industry giant when representatives from Mercury Marine visited the class.

The visit included discussions about scholarship opportunities, career pathways, industry standards and more. Representatives from the Great Lake Boat Building School and local marinas were also on hand to discuss career opportunities both locally and nationally.

Outdoor Power Equipment and Powersports Technology Instructor Todd Marcellus said the support the program has received from Mercury Marine over the years has greatly impacted his student’s opportunities for growth and career advancement.

“Mercury’s support has been phenomenal because of the donations they have provided,” said Marcellus. “Now we have the latest in diagnostic software, which has really changed the dynamics of our program and brought us into modern training. And because of that, it’s also brought more job opportunities for the students because they are better trained. It’s just awesome to have these opportunities and the support from the industry manufacturers."

Mercury Marine Technical Account Manager Jeff deDoming said he always enjoys meeting with students to inform them of the need for qualified marine technicians. It’s always a bonus, deDoming said, when some students have an interest in the field.

“It’s great to see the excitement of students, especially when we hear that some students are interested in pursuing a career in the marine industry,” he said. “We just want to make sure students are aware of how many opportunities there are in this industry.”