Junior Erica Sullivan (Continental) works on a mill in the Precision Machining lab at Vantage.At Vantage Career Center, there are nine different Trade and Industrial programs offered to high school students in the Industrial and Engineering Systems cluster. Here is a brief look at those programs:
In the Ag and Industrial Power Technology program, students learn the techniques for the maintenance and operation of industrial, diesel and agricultural equipment and machinery. They troubleshoot, overhaul and assemble gas and diesel engines, and work on mechanical and electrical fuel injection systems.
Auto Body students assess and estimate the damage to vehicles and learn the basics of collision repair and refinishing, as well as auto body and shop management skills. Performing repairs to plastic and fiberglass components are unique skills of this trade.
The Auto Technology program provides hands-on experience in the areas of hydraulic brake systems, automotive engines and suspension systems. Students use sophisticated diagnostic and repair equipment to troubleshoot automotive systems and learn the skills required to inspect, repair and adjust today’s highly computerized vehicles.
In the Precision Machining Technology program, students invent, design, and manufacture components as they learn to operate lathes, grinders, mills and computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine. Blueprint reading, computer aided drafting (CAD) and manufacturing processes are emphasized throughout the program.
The Vantage Welding program is a nationally recognized AWS (American Welding Society) training and testing facility. Students have the opportunity to earn industry certifications in plate and pipe welding. This program has earned the National Exemplary designation in career technical education.
Industrial Mechanics students learn how to perform preventive and corrective maintenance and the set up and adjustment of plant machinery. Students diagnose and repair heating, ventilation and cooling systems while learning the basics of welding, electricity, machining, metal fabrication, and hydraulics.
The Electricity program provides entry-level training ranging from residential wiring to industrial electrical applications. Students learn how to install, maintain and troubleshoot a variety of electrical systems, including the installation of coaxial or fiber optic cable for computers and other telecommunications equipment. Seniors also use their residential wiring skills to wire the Vantage Carpentry House project each year.
In the Building and Grounds Maintenance program, students are introduced to a wide variety of skills necessary to keep buildings and their surrounding areas in good condition. Students learn building maintenance skills (including recycling), landscaping, painting and light carpentry skills. This year, they are using their skills on a variety of projects in the Vantage district.
Build a house while still in high school? That’s just what Vantage Carpentry students do. Carpentry students learn the skills required for residential construction, including blueprint-reading, computerized house design, framing, roofing, drywall, cabinetry, stairs and outside finish work. These students also follow precise specifications and use software and a Techno CNC router to build custom cabinets for the house project.
If you’re interested in finding out about career opportunities in any of these fields or have questions about the trade and industrial programs at Vantage, please call Mike Knott, Student Services Supervisor at 419-238-5411 ext. 2032 or email him at knott.m@vantagecareercenter.com.
