RACINE—In a remarkable display of community support and innovative thinking, Project RISE—part of the Athens-Meigs Educational Service Center in Chauncey—has opened doors for eleven aspiring students from Southern High School by connecting them with meaningful internship opportunities.
Among these promising individuals, Xander Alkire, Aden Casteel, Murphy Dunfee, Alexander Owsley, David Lee Jr., and Cooper Diddle embarked on an exciting journey at Vitruvian in Athens, where they engaged in a pre-apprenticeship program focused on the groundbreaking field of 3-D construction printing.
Throughout their training, these students delved into the specialized materials utilized in this cutting-edge technology and witnessed firsthand how 3-D printing can revolutionize modern construction projects. Click here to see the students in action.
Project RISE Director, Amy Robinson, expresses immense pride in the strong collaborative partnership with Vitruvian and the supportive leadership teams in Athens and Meigs County. She highlighted the pivotal role of local superintendents, who visited Chauncey to observe the homes being constructed using Vitruvian’s state-of-the-art 3D printer, affectionately named the Scorpion. This collaboration sparked student interest and led to the launch of the pre-apprenticeships now available to eager learners.
“Change can be incredibly challenging, especially when facing uncertainty about the outcome,” Robinson remarked. “I commend the administrators for embracing this opportunity and providing students with an invaluable learning experience.”
Robinson said the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and the impact on these students has been both profound and transformative.
“Project RISE is dedicated to bringing innovative programs like this to students across Southeastern Ohio, empowering them to envision a brighter future,” Robinson shared.
Beyond the extraordinary experience at Vitruvian, other students have seized their own unique opportunities.
Victoria Barton gained valuable insights working at Kinsale Corporation, a construction company in Pomeroy.
Kallie Jo Roush immersed herself in the nurturing environment of Darrell Norris Greenhouse in Racine.
Landen Smith ventured into the medical field at OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital, exploring the fascinating world of radiological imaging.
Additionally, students Jerry Johnson and Landon Jones contributed to their communities through internships at Southern Local School District.
These transformative internships were made possible through the generous support of the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, Ohio University, and the Appalachian Children Coalition, demonstrating the power of community partnerships in shaping the future of our youth.
Southern High School Principal Daniel Otto said he was appreciative of everyone who supported the students.
“This initiative not only enriches the students' educational experience but also inspires them to chase their dreams, equipped with the skills and knowledge gained through real-world experiences,” Otto shared. “The future looks bright for these young leaders!”
Note: Some students may not have pictures available as none were submitted to Project RISE.