In April, the HVCC Business Communications class traveled to the headquarters of nearby Integra Optics in Latham for a job shadow field trip. 
Integra Optics is a leader in the telecommunications industry recognized for its innovative network solutions, product reliability, technical expertise and personalized customer service.
The group of 11th and 12th grade students had an opportunity to learn about this trendy, team-driven telecommunications company that focuses on maximizing quality up-time – in other words, keeping networks up and running – for over 300 organizations world-wide.
Students learned about the company start up from CEO David Prescott, a former United States Navy nuclear engineer, along with interactions with the human resource, marketing, sales, and engineering departments.
Students spent time learning about robotics and how they improve the quality and efficiency of the business. Mr. Prescott thrilled the group by sharing his passion for old Navy planes where students were able to explore and sit in his personally owned aircraft.
The students experienced many real-life takeaways that have been discussed in class. Staff from each department offered words of wisdom to the students who are preparing for college and future internship experiences.