student using plasma cutter in class

Our world is changing rapidly, and it’s the job of our district to keep pace so that our students are prepared for life and work in the 21st century. We can do this with the help of grants such as the one we recently received from the White Family Charitable Trust. 

Funding from the grant was used to purchase a Torchmate CNC Plasma Arc Cutter, related software, and the curriculum to teach CNC technology as an independent course. The curriculum includes 11 comprehensive chapters created by a team of professional welding and fabricating educators. Students are learning about the history of the technology, its applications, and how to program and operate the plasma cutter. 

Incorporating this equipment into our educational programming has greatly increased our students’ excitement for modern industry practices. Before the introduction of the plasma cutter, our shop was not representative of today’s workplace in this field. Now, students can use their creativity to create signs, chairs, firepits, nametags, and much more! Many of our students are considering a career in metal fabrication and this equipment better prepares them for careers ahead. Overall, this equipment has been a vital part of taking our shop into the 21st century. 

The grant is awarded by the Tiffin Community Foundation, whose mission is to build bridges to help the citizens of Tiffin and Seneca County, Ohio, access charitable and educational services and programs that will enrich their lives. We are so grateful for the support and continued partnership of area organizations that aim to make a better tomorrow for our students and community.