Exploring Innovation in the Manufacturing Choice Academy
At Grace Place, our Manufacturing Choice Academy gives middle schoolers a hands-on look at the world of manufacturing, guided by our new Director of Career and Technical Education, Kengo Yamada. The curriculum is designed to spark creativity, encourage problem-solving, and teach practical skills that students can carry into the future.
Students have tackled exciting projects like planning designs from blueprints, cutting and shaping sheet metal, and creating custom phone stands. They’ve also taken on creative challenges, like building the tallest tower possible using only index cards—no tape allowed! These activities teach students how to think critically, test ideas, and design effective solutions—just like engineers and manufacturers do every day.
The Academy also connects students with industry professionals. Dallas Clarke from Arthrex visited Grace Place to share how curiosity and persistence can lead to careers that use science and innovation to improve lives.
Recently, students took their learning on the road with a field trip to NorthStar Technologies, touring the facility and seeing firsthand how a modern manufacturing operation runs.
Experiencing the workplace environment helped students connect classroom concepts with real-world applications, inspiring them to imagine their own future in high-demand manufacturing careers.
Through hands-on projects, field trips, and expert guidance, the Manufacturing Choice Academy is helping students explore innovation, build skills, and see the possibilities that lie ahead.
