CONNECTING WITH CO-OP: Questions and answers with the employers and students participating in Southeastern’s Co-Op program.

Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School is pleased to recognize the many businesses and students who are part of the school’s cooperative education program, known as Co-Op.  The program allows for junior and senior students to obtain full-time jobs with local businesses in southeastern Massachusetts.   

 The partnership is an important tradition at Southeastern, helping students to gain valuable work skills and allowing employers to hire students who are specially trained to assist their businesses.    This year, the school is working with more than 30 businesses that are employing students in traditional vocational majors, such as auto repair, plumbing and carpentry, as well as more recent vocational majors, such as legal and protective services and engineering.   

 As a tribute to both businesses and students, Southeastern will be highlighting several employers in town with their Co-op students.  Today, we highlight our partnership with Bourne’s Auto Center, of South Easton, a family-owned auto sales and auto body service company.  The company has hired senior Ronaldo Auguste, of Brockton, who is working as an auto technician, under the supervision of Brian Mountain, the Director of Fixed Operations.  

 Brian Mountain

Q:  Why did you decide to get involved in this program?

 A:    It’s a great opportunity to get young people out into the work force to make them productive employees.  There’s nothing better than starting someone at the ground level and moving them up from within.

 Q:   What skills and abilities has this student brought to your business? 

 A:   When Ronaldo came, he had a stronger technical background than what I expected.  Also, he didn’t have some bad habits that we have found in some employees who had come from the work force. 

 Q:  What additional training have you provided to the student?  

 A:  We have a mentor program, and for the first few weeks, we have the student do job shadowing with the technicians.  He got ongoing training with oil changes, tires and brakes in a real world environment.

Q: Would you recommend this program to other businesses?

 A:  Yes – it works.  You get a chance to have young people who come to work and learn, and it’s a win-win situation.  I believe in it wholeheartedly.

 Ronaldo Auguste

Q:  What is it like to be in the real-world job?

A:   It’s different time-wise.  At school you have all day to finish something, but here, you have a deadline, and you have to work harder.  I’ve definitely learned a lot about time management.

 Q:  How did your vocational training at Southeastern prepare you for this job?

A:  I’ve learned a lot about tires, brakes, and all types of mechanical work.

 Q:   What do you like most?

A:    It’s laid-back and cool, and you don’t have to ask the teacher or the staff about everything.  I have more independence as far as moving ahead with my work.

 Q:  Do you feel more prepared for your career and/or educational future?

A:  Yes.  I have a real feel for how it’s going to be and what I need to learn.

 Businesses interested in learning about the Southeastern Co-Op program, or who would like to hire a Southeastern Co-Op student, should contact Chuck Burgess at 508-230-1294 or cburgess@serds.org.