Page 8 - TTMNFallWinter2025

Manufacturing
Page 8 Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com

Redesigned Westonka High School in Minnetrista, MN Will Feature

New Machining and Manufacturing Program

workplace and giving them the tools and confi- programs, Westonka is forging valuable part-
dence they need to succeed after high school.” nerships with local organizations to ensure
“Additionally, almost all of the new that students have access to top-tier training
vocational programs will lead to either a state and authentic experiences. Growing relation-
or national certification, which represents the ships these organizations will not only support
mastery of critical skills in these fields that students but also help local businesses by
employers are actively seeking,” Femrite added. providing a steady pipeline of skilled, trained
workers. It’s a win-win for both the students
Building Connections with Local and the community.
Businesses, Community Partners
The district’s new machining and manu- Looking Ahead
facturing program - set to launch in fall 2026 The new machining and manufacturing
- is being developed in collaboration with area program along with the other vocational options
Mark Femrite, Asst. Supt. of Teaching and and expanded offerings are courses in machin- manufacturing businesses and a local college. are just one part of the exciting changes under-
Learning ing and manufacturing, construction trades, Nearby high schools, with well-established way at Westonka High School. The redesign
Westonka Public Schools nursing, and emergency medical services, all machining and manufacturing programs, have is focused on creating spaces that foster inno-
With the passage of a $93.4 million bond of which will provide hands-on experience and also provided input on the design of Westonka’s vation, collaboration, and hands-on learning.
referendum in 2023, Westonka Public Schools prepare students for immediate entry into high- new lab and student experiences. With continued support from the community
is taking a bold step into the future with a total demand fields. When the first machining and manufactur- and local industry partners, Westonka Public
redesign of Westonka High School. In addition “These innovative improvements, like ing course debuts this fall, students will gain Schools is laying the foundation for a future
to transforming the entire school’s physical the addition of an ambulance bay at the high experience with metals, welding, CAD soft- where students are empowered to explore
space, this project will significantly expand school, are going to be a real game-changer for ware and a manual mill. A second course will diverse career paths and make meaningful con-
career-focused programs for students. Westonka students and educators,” said Mark teach students how to develop CAM programs tributions to society.
Femrite, assistant superintendent for teach- and operate an industry-level CNC mill. Dis-
Expanding Career Pathways ing and learning. “Thanks to the community’s trict leaders say the new lab will simulate a
A major focus of the high school rede- support and industry partnerships, we’re going modern manufacturing environment and help
sign is the introduction of vocational programs to be able to provide hands-on, real-world prepare graduates for machining and manufac-
designed to equip students with the skills experiences right on campus, allowing students turing careers or post-secondary pathways. westonka.k12.mn.us
needed for in-demand careers. Among the new to learn in an environment that mirrors the As part of the expansion of vocational

Learn a Skilled Trade

Employers seek our graduates!

Many of our programs have a history of 100% placement of graduates
upon completion.

Degree, diploma and certificate options in:
Auto Body Collision Technology Construction Technology
Automotive Technology Electronics Technology
CNC Machine Tool Mechatronics Technology
Computer Aided Design (CAD) Truck Driving
Computer Engineering Technology Welding Technology

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