THOMASVILLE- Local businesses are proving to be essential partners in engaging students with the needs of the future workforce. Check-Mate Industries, Pursuit Aerospace, and Thomasville National Bank recently joined forces to ensure more Thomas County Middle School eighth graders could participate in the annual TCMS Rocket Day.
The program, initiated by the 8th Grade MERIT Science Teacher Clayton Woodfin 17 years ago, has become a cherished TCMS tradition, the school said in a press release. Students delve into the theories of chemical and physical changes, energy transformations, and how students see and hear rockets. This year, thanks to the support of local businesses, more eighth grade students will have the opportunity to be a part of the magic.
Pursuit Aerospace and Checkmate Industries were particularly enthusiastic about exposing students to the practical applications of science in the real world.
Pursuit Aerospace General Manager Shawn Snyder shared, “By participating in Rocket Day, students gain firsthand experience of the manufacturing of parts and the aspects of mechanical engineering that goes into building a functional rocket. It is great to see the schools encouraging interest in the fields of manufacturing and engineering.”
Check-Mate CEO Regina Vieweg agreed, “Checkmate is excited to see the future workforce exposed to concepts which will prepare them to acclimate to current manufacturing workforce needs.”
The collaboration between local businesses and the school district highlights the importance of fostering connections between education and future career opportunities.
TNB Community Reinvestment Officer Melvin Hugans shared, “By igniting a passion for science and technology early on, these partnerships can play a crucial role in shaping a skilled and innovative workforce for Thomas County. These initiatives also help establish a strong economic and financial base, which benefits everyone.”