[Princeton, WV, May 10] Conn-Weld Industries, LLC has partnered with Explore the New Manufacturing to further education in manufacturing. As part of this initiative, Conn-Weld participated in a Manufacturing Innovation Challenge (MIT) with Fayette Institute of Technology (FIT), a program of Explore the New Manufacturing where high school teams solve real-world manufacturing problems. On April 12, via virtual classroom, Conn-Weld presented students, Joel Banks, Jacob Cooper, Aidan Cox, Corey Mitchell, Logan Pack, Justin Pettit, Hunter Richardson, Jacob Talbert, Bryce Tucker, and Matthew Walker, of Scott McDaniel’s Pre-Engineering class with a challenge pertaining to product quality control. Three samples of profile wire screen panels were sent prior to the class. The high schoolers were to choose the correct sample based on the required specifications provided. During the class, Vice President of Engineering, Anthony Fink explained how choosing to remain in WV has proven beneficial to his career. He also offered sound advice to students stating, “you have to marry yesterday’s experience with today’s technology”. Stephen Collins, a 13-year employee, talked about starting his career at Conn-Weld right out of high school. Finally, President Marvin Woodie, discussed the various applications of the product the students were to inspect and the importance of quality control. In addition, he remarked how an engineer has had a hand in designing everything they see around them, further stating, “there has to be people that can convert design into product.” Marvin went on to say there is an urgent need for people with technical training to fill these positions such as welders, fabricators, CNC operators, and machinists. Each of the students then introduced themselves sharing their future goals.
The virtual class resumed on Wednesday, May 5, with FIT. Presenting the results of challenge on behalf of the class were Jacob Cooper, project manager, Matthew Walker, shop foreman, and Cory Mitchell, IT Specialist. The pre-engineering team discussed the challenges they faced, and the method they used to draw their conclusion. Students produced data on an excel spreadsheet and gave their findings. President Marvin Woodie congratulated them on a job well done saying to always seek new technology and cost-effective ways to accomplish tasks. Organizer, Tom Reed of the MIC program, said although this was not what he envisioned when this program launched, thinking classes would be held in person, he still believes this was very much a worthwhile experience advising them to incorporate it into their resumes. Mr. McDaniel agreed saying this was a great challenge for his students and looks forward to working with Conn-Weld next semester.
In recognition of West Virginia Manufacturing Education Day, Conn-Weld is excited to highlight their participation with Fayette Institute of Technology. Conn-Weld looks forward to future opportunities that will engage middle and high school students in a collaborative effort with West Virginia Manufacturing Association Education Fund, Explore the New Manufacturing.
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has recognized May 10, 2021, as West Virginia Manufacturing Education Day. The proclamation celebrates and recognizes students and educators across the Mountain State for their excellence and commitment to the next generation of workers in the manufacturing industry. "Today pays homage to those in the education and industry sectors who tirelessly cultivate innovative and engaging educational programs connecting student interest and skills with meaningful career opportunities in manufacturing. West Virginia Manufacturing Education Day is a celebration of the state’s students and educators for their excellence and commitment to the next generation in the manufacturing industry workforce,” said Explore the New Manufacturing Program Director Monica Cross.
Explore's Manufacturing Innovation Challenge is designed to allow high school student teams to solve real-world manufacturing problems faced by West Virginia manufacturers. Each challenge is unique and can come from a variety of aspects of the company's operations. Students learn how problem-solving skills are a critical element to job performance. The challenge concludes with a formal team presentation, after which students and manufacturers discuss the feasibility of implementing the solution. The experience illustrates how teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills are used to implement the industry's solutions.
