There are a lot of reasons to become an expert on technology: it can make you more productive, help you learn valuable skills, and allow you to master really cool new gadgets. But, for Bell Elementary fifth grader Owen Hershowitz, there’s another reason.
“I like knowing something my mom doesn’t know. Whenever she asks me to fix her computer, I have a big smile on my face,” said Hershowitz. “I’ve always liked machines. When I was four years old, I kissed the vacuum goodnight.”
Hershowitz’ love of machines has become a skill.
“He’s the go-to guy for our (teaching) team,” said Bell Elementary teacher Jessica Edwards. “Other teachers have grabbed him when they need help, too.”
After displaying a skill and affinity for all things tech during the school year, Hershowitz got to spend a day job shadowing Broome-Tioga BOCES PC Lead Technician Eric Spittle, who spends much of his day in the Windsor Central School District.
Spittle explained how the District’s wireless network functions, the rapid pace of technology changes in the classroom, and the pair dissected a Chromebook to study its components. Hershowitz’ curiosity impressed Spittle.
“I’m hearing myself talk from many years ago. These were the questions I had as a kid. I was lucky to have people in my life willing to teach me,” said Spittle. “I enjoy passing it on. I do that with my own kids. I pass the nerding to the next generation.”
The job shadow aligns with the District’s Future Ready Knights program, which allows students to pursue one of seven career pathways, including technology.
“We wanted to give Owen this opportunity and help him explore this career,” said Edwards.
“Any time we can expose students to different careers, it’s super important. It gives them a taste of what it’s really like,” said Chrissi Choi, Broome-Tioga BOCES Assistant Director for Technology, Leadership and Innovation.
Hershowitz isn’t sure yet whether he wants to pursue a career in technology. But, it’s clear his ability to tinker with tech will help him in any field.
“Sometimes it’s easy to fix. But, when it’s hard, it’s fun to try to figure it out,” said Hershowitz.