Doug Bush, Associate Superintendent, GI-TEC

Sixty-three local high school students got a glimpse at their potential future careers while  two local manufacturers got a glimpse of their potential future work force on Friday, October 11, 2016.  

Students from the Gratiot-Isabella Technical Education Center took part in Manufacturing Day as they toured two local companies and learned the ins and outs of local manufacturing.  The students who participate in GI-TEC's Machine Trades and Mechantronics classes, came away with a new appreciation of the potential careers available in the field. Local Manufacturing Day sites were Aircraft Precision Products and Anchor Danly, both located in the Ithaca Industrial Park. "Our goal was to show these students that Aircraft and other local manufacturing companies offer viable careers in a variety of fields," said APP President, Bill Henderson.  "Manufacturing jobs consist of not just machining or welding, but also can include engineering, maintenance, information technology, quality and finance." 

 

"I saw a lot of what I was hoping to see," said Mt. Pleasant High School Junior Dallas McDonald, who can only be described as a machining enthusiast. "What I liked the most about it was seeing how many different parts they can make and all the different machines they use to make them.  I want to go into any type of job where I'm using machines to make parts.  This interested me a lot."

 

The growing need for skilled trades workers continues to drive the need for student exposure to industry. There is concern about not being able to meet the demands for skilled trades employees over the next five to ten years.  It's important that students see the opportunities that business and industry has for these employees - particularly opportunities for advancement and specialization.

 

"Outreach to education, particularly technical education, is always in the best interest of employers," Henderson said.  "These students represent the workforce of the next generation and it is to our advantage to show them what to expect in the workplace."  The GIRESD is appreciative for the support the program receives in the community.  Aircraft Precision Products has been a tremendous supporter of CTE education and developing interest in the skilled trades along with Anchor Danly.  Both companies participate in our annual Open House and Career Expo.