Exploring Local Industries: Keystone Central CTC Students Get Hands-On Experience

The Drafting Design Technology program at Keystone Central CTC recently organized an industrial tour for its students, providing them with a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of prominent industries in McElhattan. Accompanied by their instructor, Frederick Hoy, the students visited First Quality Products, Nutek, and the Wayne Township Landfill, gaining valuable insights into the manufacturing and environmental sectors.

Students touring a cutting-edge manufacturing facility

The first stop on the itinerary was First Quality Products, where students were treated to a comprehensive tour of the facility. They engaged in discussions with key personnel, gaining firsthand knowledge of the intricate manufacturing processes. The visit also shed light on the remarkable growth of First Quality, from its humble beginnings in 1989 with just 20 employees to becoming the largest employer in Clinton County.

Nutek’s Operations Lead, John Andrews, briefing students on protocols for entering the “clean environment” of the facility

At Nutek, students were briefed by John Andrews, Operations Lead, on the protocols for entering the “clean environment” of the facility. This hands-on instruction provided a glimpse into the stringent standards upheld in high-tech manufacturing settings.

Students touring the Wayne Township Landfill

The tour culminated at the Wayne Township Landfill, where students were given a comprehensive overview of its design, construction, and operational protocols. Discussions on topics such as landfill lining, methane capture, and environmental sustainability underscored the facility’s commitment to protecting the local ecosystem. A bus tour of the facility allowed students to see the operation and engineering processes that the landfill uses to protect the land, water, and air. The tour concluded with a visit to the recycling facility, reinforcing the importance of responsible waste management practices.

Students visiting the recycling facility

Reflecting on the experience, Hoy emphasized the significance of field trips in bridging classroom learning with real-world applications, stating that many of the students were surprised to see such a high level of technology being utilized at all these facilities.

Acknowledgement was extended to the Clinton County CareerLink office for their support in facilitating transportation funding and trip coordination, underscoring the collaborative efforts to enrich educational experiences for students.

The tour not only provided students with practical insights but also instilled a deeper appreciation for the relationship between schools, industry, and community.

Students, instructors, and industry partners working together

The success of this industrial tour is a testament to the power of collaboration between educational institutions and local industries. By providing students with hands-on experience and real-world applications, we can inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders.