Kenny Kollock, a Carpentry student at Berks Career & Technology Center and a senior at Boyertown, is laying the foundation for a promising future—both literally and figuratively. Through his co-op at A.D. Moyer Lumber in Pottstown, he’s gaining valuable industry experience while continuing his academic requirements. Kenny attends BCTC on Monday morning, works Tuesday through Friday mornings at A.D. Moyer, and returns to Boyertown High School in the afternoons for two classes, balancing work, school, and wrestling with confidence and drive.
Kenny’s interest in carpentry sparked at home. “I always looked up to my dad, and he is in the Philadelphia Carpentry Union and that is what I want to do,” he shared. “I always liked to build stuff. I am a hands-on kid. I don’t feel like I’m book smart, but I am smart at building things.” When he learned about BCTC, Kenny saw an opportunity to explore the field before committing to a career. “I knew I could get a base understanding of Carpentry to see if I like it before starting a career in the industry.”
His time at BCTC quickly exceeded expectations. “I like BCTC so much. I didn’t realize the students build a house and get experience working on an actual job site,” he said. “When I first started BCTC, I didn’t know about the co-op opportunities to get hands-on experience in the working field.”
Taking initiative, Kenny reached out directly to A.D. Moyer to inquire about a job. After interviewing, he was hired to work in their shop building custom doors and windows. He immediately noticed the differences between classroom learning and on-the-job experience. “BCTC focuses on learning, and students have one-on-one time with the instructor. When you are working in the field, I am on my own. If you need help it is there, but I make decisions on my own. It takes responsibility.”
One of the most demanding challenges so far has been tackling a large order of custom doors with a tight deadline. “It can get overwhelming, but you have to stay calm and keep working and stay focused on the job,” he explained. The biggest reward has been working with the supportive staff, especially alongside a former BCTC Carpentry student who is now employed at A.D. Moyer.
Despite his busy schedule, Kenny continues to wrestle for Boyertown. “I work in the morning, school in the afternoon, and wrestling after school. It all works out,” he said.
After graduation, Kenny aims to follow in his father’s footsteps by becoming an apprentice in the Philadelphia Carpenters Union. His advice for younger students considering technical education is simple but powerful: “Give tech a try. Take the opportunity and come for a visit or an open house.”