Producing well-trained workers in key manufacturing occupations is needed to help maintain a strong business environment for communities throughout Ohio.
So we were pleased to see that Auburn Career Center has received $295,000 to purchase equipment that supports high-demand programs. That funding was secured through the latest round of the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s Super Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills, also known as RAPIDS, grant program, The News-Herald’s Chad Felton reported.
Officials noted that the school is one of 39 universities, community colleges and career technical centers statewide benefiting from the $8.3 million program.
Awardees will use the funding to upgrade equipment, enhancing training opportunities for over 6,600 students and preparing them for careers in Ohio’s expanding manufacturing industries.
Auburn Superintendent Brian Bontempo said the school will purchase equipment to support several “high-demand programs,” including industrial electricity/electrical training, diesel technology, electrical engineering prep and production welding technology for high school students.
“We plan to develop additional sprint classes for community members interested in this new equipment,” he said. “We will purchase soldering equipment and supplies, electrical wiring systems, wiring panels, pneumatic control circuits, and training equipment for wiring and ethernet installation.”
Additionally, Auburn will acquire SMART factory learning systems, programmable controllers, robotics, inspection and welding equipment, torque tools, tool identification systems, and multimeter and safety kit trainers.
“This investment is a major win for our region, and we are deeply grateful to state leadership,” Bontempo said. “These resources will expand access to advanced training opportunities and provide students with hands-on experience using the latest industry-standard equipment. We are excited to place our orders and begin installing the equipment in time for (the) next school year.”
Auburn’s RAPIDS grant for auto and advanced mobility will enhance high school and adult electrical programs by adding programmable logic controls, robotics and curriculum components, noted Michelle Rodewald, director of adult workforce education.
The News-Herald congratulates Auburn on obtaining the grant. We’re confident that the school will use the money in ways that make a positive difference for students.
