What is Nassau BOCES Barry Tech?
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech is a leading career and technical education (CTE) center located in Long Island, New York. It provides high school students with hands-on training and real-world experience in various career fields. Whether students are interested in fashion design, culinary arts, audio production, or automotive technology, Barry Tech offers programs that help them explore their passions and prepare for future careers.
By partnering with local industries and maintaining a strong focus on skill-based learning, Nassau BOCES Barry Tech bridges the gap between classroom education and the workplace. It’s more than just a school; it’s a launchpad for career readiness.
Real-World Learning Through Industry Partnerships
One of the most powerful aspects of Barry Tech’s programs is its deep connection with the business community. More than 800 Long Island businesses actively collaborate with Nassau BOCES to provide students with job shadowing, internships, mentoring, and hands-on learning.
These partnerships aren’t just surface-level. Industry professionals regularly visit classrooms to share their insights, provide feedback, and ensure that students are learning up-to-date, job-relevant skills. Students also visit local businesses to see how their classroom training applies to real workplace settings.
Lauren Engels, Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Barry Tech, explains, “Our collaboration with industry partners is at the heart of what we do. These mentors help our students thrive in today’s workforce with practical knowledge and professional guidance.”
Highlight: Annual Industry Advisory Recognition Brunch
Every year, Barry Tech hosts the Industry Advisory Recognition Brunch to celebrate the professionals who make a difference in students’ lives. At this event, business leaders receive a red-carpet welcome from student ambassadors. The brunch is entirely prepared and served by the school’s culinary students, giving them a real taste of working in hospitality.
More than just a celebration, this brunch is also a strategic moment. Faculty and business partners meet to discuss curriculum updates and ensure that classroom instruction stays aligned with evolving industry standards. This open dialogue helps shape programs to reflect current employer needs.
The event is coordinated by the Barry Tech Work-Based Learning Department: Lauren Engels, Amy Belfiore, Michele Leonardo, and Jennifer Cappa. Their continuous effort ensures strong ties with the community and endless opportunities for students.
Alumni Spotlight: Latrell Sumner’s Journey from Student to Studio Owner
Latrell Sumner is a shining example of what’s possible through the programs at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech. A graduate of the Audio Production program, Latrell returned recently as a guest artist to inspire the next generation.
He introduced students to FL Studio, a digital audio workstation many hadn’t used before. His visit wasn’t just about tools and techniques—it was about vision. Latrell spoke about his dreams of becoming a music producer and how hard work, determination, and his BOCES education helped him succeed.
“As a teenager, I was already producing music and working with known artists,” Latrell shared. “Now I own a recording studio, and I even produce for video games. But it all started with Barry Tech.”
His story underscores what makes Barry Tech unique: students leave with skills, confidence, and a clear path forward.
Career and Technical Education Programs Offered
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech offers a wide variety of CTE programs that cater to different interests and career goals. Some of the most popular programs include:
Audio Production Technology
Fashion Design Technology
Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management
Automotive Technology
Carpentry and Construction Trades
Criminal Justice
Computer Game Design and Programming
Each program combines classroom instruction with real-world training. For example, students in the Culinary Arts program prepare actual meals for events. Those in Fashion Design get to showcase their work during fashion shows. Audio Production students use industry-standard software to create music, podcasts, and soundtracks.
This practical learning makes students job-ready—and often college-ready—by the time they graduate.
Student Voices: Learning, Creating, Succeeding
The best way to understand Barry Tech’s impact is to hear directly from the students.
Cameron Craan, a second-year Audio Production student, shared, “Having someone like Latrell visit was huge. He helped me learn FL Studio fast, and it made me want to dive deeper into music production.”
First-year student Ameah Munlin added, “He showed us shortcuts and tips that made everything easier. I’m more confident using the software now.”
These voices show the confidence and excitement that come from learning in an environment built around student growth.
Get Involved: For Businesses and Families
Are you a local business looking to support the next generation? Or a parent curious about your child’s options? Nassau BOCES Barry Tech welcomes your involvement.
For Industry Partners: You can:
Offer internships or job-shadowing opportunities
Serve as guest speakers or mentors
Provide site tours or hands-on training sessions
For Families and Students:
Explore the full list of programs on the Barry Tech website
Attend open house events
Speak with guidance counselors to match your interests with the right program
Engagement is easy, and the impact is long-lasting.
Why Nassau BOCES Barry Tech Makes a Difference
In today’s fast-paced world, students need more than traditional academics. They need real skills, strong mentorship, and the ability to adapt. That’s what Nassau BOCES Barry Tech provides.
Here’s what sets Barry Tech apart:
Real-world training in modern, fully equipped facilities
Access to industry mentors who care about student success
Diverse program offerings for a wide range of career paths
Strong post-graduation outcomes, whether in college or the workforce
Barry Tech is not just preparing students for jobs. It’s preparing them for life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What grades can attend Barry Tech?
A: Barry Tech serves high school students from Nassau County, typically in grades 11 and 12.
Q: Do students earn certifications?
A: Yes! Many programs offer industry-recognized certifications to enhance resumes and college applications.
Q: Is transportation provided?
A: In most cases, transportation is arranged through the student’s home school district.
Q: Can students attend part-time?
A: Yes. Students usually split their day between their home high school and Barry Tech.
Q: How can a business become a partner?
A: Contact the Work-Based Learning Department at Barry Tech to explore opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech stands out as a leader in career and technical education. With its industry partnerships, diverse programs, and student-first approach, it offers real opportunities to succeed. From alumni like Latrell Sumner to the hundreds of students who train each year, the impact is clear.
