Students at Liberty-Benton High School have an exciting new opportunity to explore careers in the manufacturing industry. Recently, the school was awarded a state of Ohio Straight A Fund grant to offer a basic manufacturing class. In partnership with Rhodes State College and the West Central Ohio Manufacturing Consortium (WCOMC), students can earn the WCOMC’s Basic Manufacturing Credential, two college credit hours and an integrated systems certificate from Rhodes, and receive a WorkKeys assessment score. Throughout the school year, students will be touring area manufacturing facilities and have opportunities to apply for local internships.
The manufacturing class allows students to explore post-high school career options they may have never considered and provides them with skills that are immediately transferrable to the workforce. Taught by vocational agriculture teacher, Mr. Jeff Blakely, concepts such as manufacturing process, mathematics, workplace safety, teamwork, effective communication techniques, as well as the importance of punctuality and attendance are emphasized in this course. Potential employers benefit by being able to interact with the students prior to an employment offer and can observe that these students demonstrate the skills necessary for career success.
Whether students pursue a college degree or enter the workforce upon graduation, elements of the basic manufacturing class expose them to different types of jobs available in the manufacturing industry, ultimately helping them determine career path options. Hancock County’s low jobless rate, expanding manufacturing community, as well as an increasing need for skilled workers make the basic manufacturing class a timely addition to the school’s curriculum.
