At Manufacturing Works, one of our objectives is to prepare the next generation of manufacturing talent for the workforce through exposure, experience, and meaningful industry connections.
Our manufacturing simulated pre-apprenticeship model is designed to bridge the talent gap by providing high school students with hands-on, career learning aligned with real workforce expectations. Through industry partnerships with employers and educators, students are learning technical skills and also building the professional competencies needed to succeed in high-demand manufacturing careers.
This year, students from Max S. Hayes High School, Norwalk High School, Marion L. Steele High School, and North Ridgeville High School actively participated in simulated pre-apprenticeship experiences that brought learning to life.
What is a Simulated Pre-Apprenticeship?
Manufacturing Works simulates pre-apprenticeship experiences, replicating key elements of a registered apprenticeship within a school setting.
Students engage in project-based learning tied to real industry challenges, mentor engagement with local manufacturing professionals, exposure to workplace expectations and career pathways, and opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials
Norwalk High School: Innovation Through Industry Collaboration
With guidance from Project Lead the Way, instructor Adam Leutenegger, students stepped into the role of professionals and tackled real-world challenges. They brought their ideas to life with support from industry partners like Fabriweld, Vertiv, and USG.
From a robotic sprinkler system to a mechanical taffy puller, their projects were fully functional solutions that showcased innovation, technical skill, and the confidence needed to succeed in advanced manufacturing.
Max S. Hayes High School: Cross-Program Collaboration in Action
Under the leadership of teacher Arlene Cleveland and mentorship of Cutting Dynamics and Cleveland Cliffs, students worked together across CADD, welding, construction, and machining to design school signage using Autodesk Inventor. Project Managers stepped into leadership roles, designing the project, identifying materials, navigating school district approval, and organizing fundraising efforts.
Along the way, students addressed real-world problems that required teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, showing the skills and mindset employers look for in today’s workforce.
Marion L. Steele, North Ridgeville, and Firelands: Career Exploration in Action
Beckett Thermal Solutions welcomed students from Firelands High School, Marion L. Steele High School, and North Ridgeville High School for a behind-the-scenes look at careers in advanced manufacturing and engineering as part of these schools' pre-apprenticeship programs.
Throughout the day, students explored a variety of career pathways and engaged with employees on the plant floor and through a panel-style presentation representing several career pathways in the industry. It was a great opportunity for students to see how their skills translate beyond the classroom and into real careers. Students also had the opportunity to put their engineering skills to work with a team activity that challenged them to be innovative and adaptable.
One moment that stood out came from Scott Funderburk, President of Beckett Thermal, who left students with a powerful message: “I challenge you to think about what could be… what you could do to change the world. Learn something new every day, and then you’ll never get bored.”
Looking Ahead and Building Industry Connection
As workforce needs continue to change, Manufacturing Works is focused on growing opportunities like these and making sure more students have access to career-connected experiences. By building stronger partnerships with employers, we’re focused on helping to create clearer pathways from the classroom to real careers.
This work is about building a stronger talent pipeline. When students get early exposure, hands-on experience, and real connections to industry, they’re better prepared for what comes next. And for employers, it creates a powerful opportunity to engage early, build relationships, and help shape the next generation of the manufacturing workforce.
We invite industry partners to get involved by mentoring students, hosting site visits, supporting classroom projects, or sharing your expertise. Your engagement makes a lasting impact, not only on students but on the future of our workforce.