Manufacturing 2.0
Rock River Valley manufacturing experts discuss the many facets of manufacturing: technology, education, training, events, people and any other aspects of this important segment of our economy. They’ll use this blog to get the word out and solicit feedback on local and global manufacturing. They hope to better engage our employers, employees and our future work force and increase their understanding of manufacturing.

Archive for July 25th, 2009

Techworks Manufacturing Camp a Success

Add comment July 25th, 2009

This past week, Techworks at the Eigerlab hosted 11 young people at their annual Manufacturing Camp.  I had the chance to attend the final session on Friday when they were quizzed on reading a caliper and using a laser gun to record their answers.

When the class was finished I asked one of the young ladies, Rebecca Richert, what was her favorite part of the week-long program.  Without hesitating, she said “when I was running a machine tool the other day”.

Well, that was surprising to me yet encouraging at the same time.  To hear a young lady say she enjoyed running a machine…WOW!

One of the cool exposures they had was with SolidWorks engineering software.  At the end of the program, they each received a printout of their drawing they made using SolidWorks…and a free Student version of the software for their personal use.

Now, how cool is that?

Techworks hosts manufacturing camps each summer for eighth-, ninth- and 10th-graders.

The weeklong camp teaches students basic manufacturing concepts, precision measurement and shop safety. By the end of the week, the students have designed and manufactured products and have toured local manufacturing operations.

The camp is sponsored by Women of Today’s Manufacturing, the PACCAR Foundation and Rockford-based Fabricators and Manufacturers Association.

Well done all you supporters and keep up the good work!  And spread the word to your friends!