New York State Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Babylon) recently sponsored a class trip to the corporate headquarters of Canon USA Inc. in Melville for more than 30 Amityville High School photography students. The trip featured a corporate overview of the company, a tour of the facility’s showroom, presentations from the Human Resources department on resume coaching and internship opportunities, and a trained photo shoot with students getting the opportunity to take headshots of fellow classmates with the latest Canon USA photography equipment. The event was made possible in part by Educational Bus Transportation, Inc. of Copiague, which provided bus services for the day.

“This trip was a great opportunity for some of our local students to see the workings of a highly-successful company right here in our own backyard,” said Jean-Pierre. “I am thankful to Canon USA for opening its doors and making this experience possible. I would also like to thank Educational Bus Transportation, Inc. for generously providing its travel services for the day.”

"It was a pleasure working with Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre and Amityville Memorial High School in hosting such a successful event,” said Canon USA Project Manager Justin Belkin. “The group of budding photography students lit up with excitement as they handled Canon gear and received individualized instruction in our Image Studio from our Canon professional photographers."

“I would like to thank Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre, her Chief of Staff Brendan Cunningham, and Mr. Belkin for coordinating an engaging career exploration opportunity for 33 Amityville Memorial High School students who have a keen interest in careers involving photography,” said Dr. Mary Kelly, Superintendent of Amityville Schools. “Our students were able to apply what they’ve learned in their high school photography classes to real-world scenarios, alongside industry professionals using state-of-the-art equipment and studios. This experience provided our students with invaluable insight into a career pathway through hands-on exploration, and they enjoyed every minute of this fabulous opportunity.”

Canon USA opened its new headquarters in Melville in February 2013. The five-story building sits on a 52-acre campus and employs more than 1,600 workers. Those interested in careers and/or internship opportunities can visit Canon’s website.