Hundreds of Students Attend Manufacturing Career Awareness Events

State Representative David Muradian addressing students at Grafton Middle School.

While local schools return to a somewhat normal schedule this fall, BVEF continues to adapt. An annual favorite, Manufacturing Month Field Trips, could not take place in the manner they had in past years with students visiting each facility. Despite COVID pandemic limits, in partnership with amazing local manufacturing companies, BVEF provided high quality programming for students in a safe, fun and interactive format. In the coming months, BVEF will continue to bring career awareness to member schools, reaching 250 students.

Students share and discuss design boards created with the help of AccessTCA employees.

AccessTCA located in Whitinsville, MA visited Millbury Memorial Jr. / Sr. High School, where middle school students from Millbury, Sutton and Northbridge learned and participated in the trade show booth design process. Students were challenged to work in groups to design booths that both represent and entice others to attend their school.

Thanks to AccessTCA for creating 3 dimensional renderings of students' design boards.

Students using problem solving skills to create an Egg Protection Unit.

Lenze Americas of Uxbridge transformed the Douglas Middle School Gymnasium into a STEM

problem-solving and testing area. Students from Douglas, Blackstone-Millville and Uxbridge participated in an Egg Drop Challenge. They were troubleshooting ways to effectively protect an egg from a fall in excess of 10 feet.

Suet bird feeders created by students using wire mesh manufactured at Riverdale Mills.

Riverdale Mills of Northbridge brought the manufacturing process to Grafton Middle School. Students from Grafton, Mendon and Upton built their own suet birdfeeders. The birdfeeders were crafted from wire mesh manufactured at Riverdale Mills.

State Senator Michael Moore addressing students at Millbury Jr. Sr. High School.

Each of these interactive sessions featured virtual tours of the facility and small group challenges. The hands-on activities incorporated deep human skills such as problem solving, creativity, and teamwork necessary for workforce success. A Q&A featuring an employee panel allowed students to learn about various career options within each facility. Prizes, lunch, and even guest appearances from State Senator Michael Moore and State Representative David Muradian were appreciated by all. We are so thankful for the continued support of local leaders and businesses within the Blackstone Valley!

Here's what some of the students had to say: