The Engineering in Wood Technology class at Portage Northern High School gives students the chance to learn woodworking skills but also network with future employers from in-demand career fields.
The class, which is part of the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency's Career and Technical Education program, is an opportunity for students to earn both high school and college credit for their work.
Last week, students held their annual open house to network with business owners, future employers and community members and showcase their woodworking. Current students gave tours and shared with attendees about their personal experiences in the class.
“I really like working on projects in class because I have the opportunity to experiment and solve problems in order to get the result that we need,” student Hayden Miller said.
Related careers that the CTE course prepare students for include carpentry, furniture design, project management and industrial design. Students take projects from concept to completion using state-of-the-art software and manufacturing technology, including a brand new CNC router.
“I enjoy challenging the students and seeing them excel” said instructor Jeff Wykrent. “By being able to execute any project, on their own, just solidifies the pride and respect I have for all of my students."
The students continue to build projects that ensure they have a good foundation of knowledge for any career that they choose. For more information about CTE, visit https://www.kresa.org/Domain/3...
