Students
at Stanley E. Foster Construction Tech Academy at Kearny Educational
Complex rejoiced at the news of receiving a grant for $47,476 from the
Jimmie Johnson Foundation to upgrade, preserve and certify the last
remaining precision-machine tool technology program in San Diego county.The funding will upgrade and replace equipment necessary to acquire industry recognized certification in the manufacturing and engineering pathways.
Data show that career opportunities are growing for machine-tool operators and machinists. Currently, there are more than 600,000 unfilled machinist-related jobs nationwide and little to no infrastructure in place offering professional-level training.
The equipment will outfit the facility with a modern milling lathe and training simulators common to industry. With this new equipment, students will have an edge in obtaining employment and will learn to use the tools of tomorrow. Students will acquire professional training which meets the requirements to accredit the program under National Institute for Metalworking Skills.
The Jimmie Johnson Foundation, in partnership with Lowe’s Toolbox for Education, has been supporting schools through the Champions Grant program since 2009. Champions Grants are distributed to K-12 public schools in Chandra and Jimmie Johnson’s hometowns in California, North Carolina and Oklahoma.
For more information about Kearny Construction Tech Academy and/or the machine tooling program, please contact Principal Laura Bellofatto at lbellofatto@sandi.net or Greg Quirin, CCTE Program Specialist, at gquirin@sandi.net.
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