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14 ELECTRONIC EDITION: WWW.MANUFACTURINGTODAYWI.COM

MASH Offers Robust Career Pathways in Trades & Manufacturing

Medford Area Public School District Moves

Forward with Tech Ed Expansion and Remodel

Just over one year after residents of the engineering courses, and a larger, state-of-
Medford Area School District (MAPSD) the-art welding shop. A new maintenance
Medford Area School District real-world applications in automation and approved a $22.6 million referendum, major storage area is also part of the plan.
Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Wis- modern manufacturing. progress is being made on a transformative In addition to these new spaces, the
consin’s economy, contributing more than expansion and remodeling project for the existing auto and woods classrooms and
$70 billion annually and employing 1 in 6 Starting Early: Laying the Ground- district’s Technical Education building. shops are being enlarged and remodeled
workers across the state. Today’s manufac- work Originally constructed in 1977, the to provide more room for equipment and
turing careers are far from outdated; they’re For younger students just beginning to tech ed building is undergoing significant student projects. New storage areas will also
high-tech, creative, and in demand, offer- explore the trades, Introduction to Technology updates to better serve today’s students and be added to help keep materials organized
ing opportunities in automation, robotics, A and B offer foundational experiences. Tech prepare them for modern career and technical and accessible.
welding, engineering, and more. A focuses on woodworking and manufactur- opportunities. The project includes both new The renovations extend beyond the
From construction and automotive repair ing processes, while Tech B expands into construction and renovations designed to tech ed building itself. The current engi-
to welding, machining, and electromechanical blueprint reading, basic welding, and home enhance hands-on learning in fields such as neering and driver’s education classrooms
systems, MASH (Medford Area Senior High maintenance, including creating a custom robotics, engineering, welding, and business. in the main building will be remodeled to
School) students have access to more than a fishing rod. A unique offering, Just for Girls Among the most notable changes will create two new business classrooms. One
dozen specialized classes that give them the Tech, encourages female students to explore be a new corridor connecting the main high of these will support the district’s growing
tools, training, and confidence to succeed in woodworking and light welding in an empow- school building to the tech ed facility — a entrepreneurship program, which gives
technical fields. ering, supportive environment. long-requested improvement for accessibil- students hands-on experience running a
“Our goal is to give students as many Those interested in more advanced ity and safety. The expansion also includes school-based business that designs and sells
onramps to success as possible—whether craftsmanship can progress to Wood Manu- four new classrooms: one dedicated to Raider gear — including shirts, hats, and
that’s straight into a job, military, a techni- facturing, where teamwork and quality control robotics, two for Project Lead the Way other spirit items.
cal school, college, or an apprenticeship,” are central as students design and produce
said MASH principal Jill Lybert. “Every furniture. For students who want to take their
course is built to be hands-on, relevant, and skills even further, Cabinet Making allows
reflective of what employers are looking for them to individually craft complex projects
today.” using advanced tools and techniques.
Metals Automotive and Small Engine Training
On the metal side, Metal Manufacturing For students drawn to mechanics, MASH
introduces students to machining equipment offers a comprehensive path: Small Engines
and welding methods, while Metal Manu- introduces students to internal combustion
facturing II offers advanced welding skills engine maintenance and repair, while the
including TIG welding and blueprint interpre- ABC’s of the Automobile teaches practical
tation, with opportunities for transcripted/dual car care skills. Students can then advance to
credit through the local technical college. Auto Mechanics I and II, covering everything
from basic vehicle systems to computerized
Electromechanical diagnostics and alignment.
Students looking to enter industrial With over 20 courses designed to build
maintenance or engineering technology fields technical skill, problem-solving ability, and
can dive into the Electromechanical course career readiness, MASH is helping students find
sequence. Starting with safety and electrical purpose and prosperity through the trades.
basics in Electromechanical I, the program
progresses through AutoCAD, microcon-
trollers, fluid power systems, and SolidWorks
3D modeling. These advanced classes also www.medford.k12.wi.us
offer dual credit opportunities and align with