Community members visited Hamilton’s Applied Engineering and Technology (AET) Open House on May 29 to tour state-of-the-art labs, see class projects, meet teachers and hear directly from students about what they accomplished during the 2023-24 school year.
“Many employers are facing workforce shortages and our department believes events like this can expose our students’ diverse talents to the entire school community,” says Hamilton High School Graphic Arts Teacher Tom Schlueter. “Continuing our industry relationships allows our department to keep up with current business trends and practices. In turn, we are able to better serve our students and prepare them for the world of work if that is the path they choose after high school.”
Hamilton AET facilities were created to foster innovation, hands-on learning and provide students with exceptional opportunities in the fields of engineering, construction, fabrication, graphic design and welding.
Hamilton High School Associate Principal Mark Otto explains how both the Open House and the meeting held beforehand aim to connect with the community. “Local business representatives and community members alike were welcome to see the work that students completed during the second semester,” says Otto. “Prior to the open house, the AET department met with members of the Business Advisory Council and continued to build relationships with local businesses to solicit ideas that will continue building the school’s programs.”
“It is great to welcome community members into these classrooms so they can see first hand the amazing student projects,“ said Hamilton School District Superintendent Paul Mielke, Ph.D. “We are incredibly proud of our award-winning AET programs and continually hear from local business partners how these courses are equipping students with real world skills that contribute to the local job market upon graduation. Our talented and dedicated staff make all of this possible.”