Community members visited Hamilton’s Applied Engineering and Technology (AET) Student Showcase Jan. 17 to hear directly from students about recent projects, meet teachers and tour high school classroom labs.
“The kids were great and fun to talk to about their projects, “said Mark Verhein from Church Metal Spinning. “I think all of the corporate folks walked away with a good feeling about where the next generation is coming from and how they will be able to help a resilient economy.”
Students from Hamilton High School, Templeton Middle School and Silver Spring Intermediate School took part in the showcase. The event followed an advisory committee meeting that included local business representatives who are working with Hamilton High School to build community connections and help students attain real life, transferable skills.
Current 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.
Superintendent Paul Mielke, Ph.D. commented on how the community has played a large role in the success of these programs. “This student showcase was another opportunity to help community members better understand why our schools are receiving statewide recognition following incredible advancements made possible by the successful 2018 referendum.”
“Continued advancements to Hamilton’s AET facilities will allow us to continue to grow the pipeline of potential future employees for local business partners,” commented Hamilton High School Associate Principal Mark Otto. “When we did the last renovation in 2018, our number of participants in AET courses rose and we were able to add sections of welding, construction, and woods. Increased student participation enhances our ability to support the local workforce and labor shortage for our business partners.”
AET programs at Hamilton High School, Templeton Middle School and Silver Spring Intermediate School have all been awarded 2023 “Program of the Year” by the Wisconsin Technology Education Association. All three school AET programs were recognized for providing students with rigorous training and skill development in the areas and concepts of technology and engineering. This distinguished honor was made possible through the support of the Hamilton School District community.