Imagine rooms abuzz with creativity and the hum of precision machinery—a scene that captures the essence of the summer CNC and Welding Professional Development trainings offered by the Mountainland CTE Region. This summer, the Mountainland Career and Technical Education (CTE) Region hosted a series of practical workshops aimed at enriching the skills of high school educators. Focusing on CNC Woods and Welding, these workshops not only provided teachers with valuable knowledge but also an opportunity to enhance the learning experiences they offer their students.
CNC Woods Workshop: Crafting Rocking Chairs and Skills
Over the course of three days, the CNC Woods workshop introduced educators to the world of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) woodwork machining. Guided by experienced instructor Blake Nielsen from Nebo School District and supported by Legacy Woodworking, participants had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning.
The workshop's curriculum covered a comprehensive spectrum of skills and techniques. Teachers not only had the opportunity to delve into the art of CNC coding and design but also learned the nuances of maintaining shop tools—a vital aspect of ensuring a safe and efficient working environment. From processing 700 board feet of material to mastering the art of 
drawing a rocking chair from a set of plans, educators found themselves at the forefront of modern manufacturing techniques.
What emerged from this collaborative endeavor was not just one rocking chair, but a total of 16 impeccably crafted chairs—each one a testament to the fusion of skill, innovation, and dedication. This project not only showcased the educators' commitment to their own growth but also their determination to inspire their students through hands-on learning adventures. The blend of technology, creativity, and craftsmanship in this workshop exemplifies the transformative potential of CTE education. Teachers walked away feeling confident and capable of implementing CNC in their classrooms!
Jill Carson, a Payson High School Woods teacher, said of the event, "Thanks so much for the wonderful CNC Conference this summer. I learned so much about the CNC and feel our students will really enjoy making this Rocking Chair Project. The rocking chair turned out beautifully, and I look forward to showing it off to all our students so they can see what can be done on the CNC machine."
Welding Workshop: Bridging Industry Trends and Practical Skills
Additionally, the Mountainland CTE Region also hosted a one-day Welding Maintenance and Repair PD workshop. Led by Hunter Reynolds from MTECH, this workshop brought educators into the dynamic world of welding, fabrication, and fitting. The workshop wasn't just about sparks and metal; it was a holistic exploration of industry trends and practical skills that would equip educators to empower their students.
The day's agenda included a comprehensive range of topics. Educators got their hands dirty with shop tool maintenance, learned the nuances of equipment repair (including Miller and Victor torch repair), and gained insights into the evolving landscape of the welding industry. A highlight of the day was the I-Beam hands-on activity—a tangible representation of the art of welding and its applications.
The workshop wasn't just about imparting technical knowledge; it was about building bridges between education and industry. Educators left the workshop armed with practical skills, a deeper understanding of welding trends, and the ability to translate industry demands into classroom learning experiences.
Empowerment Through Skill-building
The professional development event was a valuable opportunity for educators to expand their skill sets and stay updated with industry trends. These workshops not only provided practical knowledge but also fostered connections between educators and industry professionals. Ultimately, the impact of these workshops will be felt within classrooms. The knowledge gained will enhance the quality of education provided to students, offering them practical insights and relevant skills for their future careers. A huge thanks to Nebo School District and CTE Director Alan Ashton, MTECH, Blake Nielsen, Hunter Reynolds, Legacy Woodworking, Andy Anderson, and John Hennen for supporting the Mountainland CTE Region initiative to empower educators for the benefit of Utah CTE teachers and students.
