Through his co-op capstone experience, Cooper Umbrell, a Level III Carpentry student at CPACTC and a senior at Cumberland Valley High School, is gaining hands-on skills while constructing a foundation for his future career.
Cooper’s journey with CPACTC began back in middle school during Middle School Camp. Given the opportunity to explore different programs, he chose Carpentry and spent a week working on a project. That early exposure sparked a strong interest in the trade and confirmed that carpentry was the path Cooper wanted to pursue.
Family influence also played a major role in that decision. Cooper’s grandfather, a former foreman for ECI, served as a strong role model and source of inspiration. Looking up to his work ethic and leadership motivated Cooper to follow in his footsteps and enter the construction industry.
Eager to gain real-world experience and start earning money, Cooper chose to participate in the Cooperative Education Capstone Program. He enjoys working and wanted to begin making money before graduating from high school. That motivation led Cooper to his co-op placement at All Points Home, a remodeling company he discovered while attending the Home and Garden Show at the PA Farm Show Complex. After speaking with representatives and learning more about the company’s work, Cooper knew it was the right fit.
At All Points Home, Cooper plays an active role on the job site, assisting wherever help is needed. His responsibilities include a wide range of hands-on tasks such as grouting, laying tile, electrical work, trimming, setting cabinets, plumbing, and job-site cleanup. This variety has allowed Cooper to gain experience in many aspects of residential remodeling.
Cooper’s favorite part of the co-op experience is teamwork. Building strong relationships with his coworkers and collaborating to complete projects has made the experience especially rewarding. While communication, particularly through text messages, has been a challenge at times, Cooper views it as part of the learning process.
Through co-op, Cooper hopes to continue expanding his skills in cabinetry, tiling, electrical, plumbing, and trimming. Looking ahead, Cooper’s plans after graduation are clear: pursue full-time employment with All Points Home and continue growing in the trade.
For Level 2 students considering co-op, Cooper offers practical advice: stay on top of your academics, especially Social Studies, and secure a job during the summer so you are ready to go out on co-op as soon as you are eligible. Above all, Cooper emphasizes one key takeaway from his own experience: watch and learn from your coworkers.
Cooper’s story is a strong example of how early exposure, hard work, and real-world experience through CPACTC’s co-op capstone program can help turn career goals into reality!