Eastern Monroe Career Center (EMCC) student Damon G. took the stage at the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) Representative Assembly this past Saturday, sharing how career and technical education (CTE) changed the course of his life.

Speaking to nearly 2,000 educators from across New York State, Damon reflected on how EMCC helped him reconnect with his education and build a path toward his future. He currently participates in EMCC’s Automated Manufacturing and Machining program, which prepares students for the field of industrial or mechanical engineering, and optical and photonics.

His powerful message resonated with the crowd, underscoring the impact CTE programs have on student success and engagement. EMCC Principal Mike Ehret was in attendance to support Damon and celebrate the significance of his achievement.

NYSUT is made up of 700,000 people who work in or are retired from New York’s schools, colleges and healthcare facilities. The NYSUT Representative Assembly is the union’s policy-making body, where elected delegates come together annually to debate key issues, vote on resolutions, and elect state leaders. Damon’s address served as a reminder of why educators do this work—and the lasting difference they can make in students’ lives.