Student Interns Gain Work Experience

(Larry Cook is a 1970 OHS graduate and George Boggs graduated in 1973)

Samuel Toler is serving an internship at Cook's Manufacturing in Jesse, getting on-the-job training while he is still in high school.

Toler, a senior at Wyoming County East High School, spends four mornings a week working on the site under the direction of mentor George Boggs.

"He's been learning how to refine his skills," Boggs explained, noting Toler has worked on several pieces of equipment and observed some welding.

On the fifth day each week, Toler returns to his industrial equipment and maintenance class at the Wyoming County Career and Technical Center, according to Debbie Hall, county School To Work facilitator.

He also participates in his math lab on that day, she said.

Toler said he is "better" at the skills required for his career choice as a result of his work experience.

"This also helps build his confidence," Boggs noted.

Toler said his instructor mentioned the difference in Toler's work skills since he began at Cook's Manufacturing.

Boggs said he has also taught Toler how to stay safe on the job, including how to lift without hurting himself.

"I'm definitely a firm believer in the vocational school," emphasized Larry Cook, owner of Cook's Manufacturing.

Cook graduated from the school in 1970, completing the drafting shop.

"It definitely made a difference in my career," Cook said.

Toler is the fourth student to complete an internship at Cook's business, he said.

"This gives them some real life experience and it helps us too," Cook noted.

In business for 25 years, Cook just hired his 140th person, he said.

"The whole purpose is for the students to get hands-on experience," Hall said.

While the idea behind the program isn't to get employment for the students, it does give employers a chance to see the students' character and work ethic firsthand, she said.

Toler is one of four high school students working in internships across Wyoming County, Hall noted, two from the career center and two others from the high schools.

Seniors who are at the top of their class can participate.

"It's an opportunity for them to see all aspects of the industry," Hall said, including how the business is run.