Natalie Pyle’s internship at FLX Marine turned into employment after she completed the Outdoor Power Equipment and Powersports Technology program at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES. During her senior year, Pyle completed a two-week internship at FLX Marine in Union Springs.

FLX Marine is a full-service marina specializing in new and used boat sales, boat rentals, storage, repair, and more. Pyle’s mechanical knowledge and computer skills helped her stand out during her internship.

“Natalie was rotated into all areas of the marina; however, her concentration was the service and repair shop,” said General Manager Karla Shreck. “She was recognized as a good prospect for administrative help in the service department. She helped on the fuel dock all summer and is now acting as a service writer.”

Pyle said she enjoyed the experience of working in a real shop.

“My internship gave me a glimpse of what a workday would be like for me, and how fast-paced the industry can be,” she said.

Schrek noted that the internship partnership between FLX Marine and Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES is a positive experience for both the business and the students.

“Our organization benefits by having access to well-trained individuals who are happy to learn on the job. It has given us a chance to see what they can do. If they feel like a good fit for us and we feel like a good fit for them, it’s a win-win!”

For more information on the Work-Based Learning program at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES, please contact Kimberly Stevers at kstevers@cayboces.org or at (315) 253-0361, ext. 5117.