MANSFIELD — Over the summer, educators from districts in Crawford, Morrow and Richland counties had the opportunity to participate in the Mid-Ohio ESC Business Advisory Council’s Business and Manufacturing Teacher Boot Camps in the region.

Participants gained first-hand experience with cutting-edge ways to use technology in the workplace and learned about the rewarding careers available in manufacturing and the skills students need to obtain and retain these positions local. Additionally, Integrated Systems Technologies (IST) of Richland County sponsored a free 3D printer for three Crawford County Boot Camp teacher participants who designed a lesson, unit or project that best demonstrates the use of 3D printing in a manufacturing environment.

Gabe McCready, President of Operations at IST, said: “In today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape, it is essential to have access to tools that foster creativity and innovation. A 3D printer can be a powerful resource for students, allowing them to bring their ideas to life and engage in hands-on learning. Whether in design, engineering or art classes, the possibilities for interdisciplinary projects are endless. IST is excited to see each school and program take advantage of the newly donated 3D printers. McCready went on to express his excitement for the boot camp: “We appreciate each teacher taking the time to participate in the teacher boot camp and learn about the great careers that exist for students locally in the manufacturing and engineering sector.

Linsey Phillips, a school psychologist at Colonel Crawford Local Schools, won the IST 3D printer for her district. “The manufacturing boot camp for educators revealed not only the pride that exists in our local industries, but also the important role workers play in driving innovation. The industry is alive and well in Crawford County,” Phillips said. “As we toured these workplaces, it became clear that with commitment and skills, the path to career advancement is as dynamic as the communities we serve. We are grateful to IST for donating a 3D printer to our district. By creating practical opportunities for our students, we will help them develop the skills that will prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow.

April Bond, headteacher of Colonel Crawford Local Schools, said: “We feel very lucky to be the recipients of this award. Colonel Crawford is working hard to develop and grow a STEM program that will allow students to continue to grow through our ever-changing technology while also helping to prepare students for the path they choose in life. This summer’s teacher boot camp was eye-opening because it not only highlighted the many great career opportunities in Crawford County, but it also showed us as educators how we can support students and businesses by helping prepare students to race toward a prosperous future.

Lesley Hayman, a primary school teacher at Wynford Local Schools, is excited about the opportunities the 3D printer donation will bring to primary school pupils. She said: “We even ask our youngest children, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ It is extremely important to introduce young children to careers where they can create, design and manufacture. Hayman continued, “Introducing a 3D printer to elementary school students will get them excited at a young age about careers that use practical skills to create, with emphasis and value on manufacturing careers. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for Wynford primary school pupils.

Wynford business teacher David Mason also received a 3D printer through the career exploration lesson he created through Teacher Boot Camp. Mason said: “I would like to thank IST for the generous donation of two 3D printers to local schools in Wynford. Technology impacts industries all over the world, including in Crawford County, and it is important that our students are aware of new technologies in the workplace. The 3D printers will be used by all K-12 students in the Wynford district.

“Teacher boot camps are a valuable way for educators to gain the experience of understanding the careers available in their communities and integrate that knowledge into teaching in a meaningful way, helping students understand the skills needed to succeed locally,” said Amy Wood, director of Grants & Special Projects, who leads the Business Advisory Council. “We are grateful to IST for its sponsorship of our Business Advisory Council and the donation of 3D printers for this important program.”

Teacher Boot Camp is a three-credit hour college course taught by Amy Wood each summer. The course includes readings, discussion board postings, and visits to local businesses supported by local workforce development partners, which supplement the course material. The cost is $125, which can be reimbursed if teachers meet certain criteria. If you are interested in registering for the 2024 Richland, Crawford or Morrow County Professional Teacher Boot Camp, please email Amy Wood at [email protected].

The Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center provides specialized academic and support services to 13 school districts and more than 20,000 students in Crawford, Morrow and Richland counties. Client districts receive the services of curriculum consultants, special and gifted education, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, special education teachers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.