As teachers looked on with pride, Electronics and Engineering Technology junior Ted Floyd of Upton spoke with State Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Greg Bialecki about the many career pathways the manufacturing industry can offer students with a diverse skillset in electronics, engineering, drafting, and machining.While some industries struggle to create new jobs, a lack of highly skilled workers is leaving manufacturing job openings unfilled in Massachusetts
This dilemma and its potential solutions were the topics of discussion during State Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Greg Bialecki’s recent visit to Blackstone Valley Tech. In support of Gov. Deval Patrick’s promotion of advancement manufacturing, Bialecki arranged for an up-close look at Valley Tech’s nationally renowned model of vocational technical education and track record of meeting industry needs.
Bialecki’s tour included visits to BVT’s Manufacturing and Engineering Technology, Electronics and Engineering Technology, and Drafting and Engineering Technology programs. Students and staff spoke with Bialecki about the collaborative relationship between the closely related programs, each of which is providing students with the diverse skillset necessary for career longevity in modern manufacturing. Valley Tech’s integrated approach, according to Bialecki, is one of several models he will keep in mind as he promotes advanced manufacturing across the state.
“I came here having heard about the great reputation of the school. What I saw today really reinforces Valley Tech’s best practices,” Secretary Bialecki said. “Connecting the machine shop with electronics and drafting, building a curriculum responsive to employer needs, and training students on the equipment they need for success are all very exciting elements.”
Following the tour, Valley Tech administrators, students, staff, and school committee members joined Secretary Bialecki, state Rep. John V. Fernandes, D-Milford, state Sen. Richard T. Moore, D-Uxbridge, and other state officials in a roundtable discussion of the state’s manufacturing skills gap. Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Team Leader David Lewis stated that the root of the problem is a public misperception of modern manufacturing.
“Parents and younger students need to look at manufacturing as a career path and not as ‘just a job.’ Every company these days wants to make sure that lifelong learning occurs,” Lewis said. “Employers want workers who are highly trained and will continue their education throughout their life with the company.”
As co-chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus, Rep. Fernandes echoed Lewis’ concerns and announced the award of a $55,000 grant to the Blackstone Valley Education Foundation in support of a manufacturing career awareness campaign. In addition to increased public awareness, Bialecki said that he “absolutely” supports efforts to promote careers in manufacturing by expanding programs at Valley Tech.
“It was wonderful to see Secretary Bialecki come out and support our efforts to further develop the workforce by expanding opportunities in Engineering Technology,” said BVT School Committee Chairman Joseph M. Hall of Bellingham. “As a voice for Governor Patrick’s administration, Secretary Bialecki’s public awareness efforts will certainly help our district’s initiatives earn the support of member communities.”
As their advanced manufacturing campaign continues, Director of Education and Workforce Development Marybeth Campbell thanked Blackstone Valley Tech for opening its doors.
“The students and teachers were amazing,” Campbell said. “We are so glad Valley Tech was the first visit in our manufacturing tour. They certainly set the bar high.”
Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School serves the towns of Bellingham, Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Mendon, Milford, Millbury, Millville, Northbridge, Sutton, Upton and Uxbridge. Located in the heart of the Blackstone Valley, Blackstone Valley Tech creates a positive learning community that prepares students for personal and professional success in an internationally competitive society through a fusion of vigorous vocational, technical, and academic skills. The school’s website is www.valleytech.k12.ma.us.
UPTON DAILY 