(l-r) Westside High School Engineering Instructor John Bombac assisting Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts with the official steel cutting. The entrance to the Westside Welding, Fabrication and Manufacturing Lab is behind them.
Sponsor Plaque permanently displayed on the wall next to the Welding Labs entrance, showcasing the 40+ donors, including some of the country's top engineering and manufacturing firms like Kiewit Corporation and Union Pacific.
Labs space, including welding cameras and 20+ individual bays
Westside Community Schools, in partnership with the Westside Foundation, recently unveiled a welding, fabrication and manufacturing lab at Westside High School. This project was funded by more than 40 donors, including some of Nebraska's top corporations and the Nebraska Department of Labor.
The Westside High School Welding, Fabrication and Manufacturing Lab provides 2,500 sq. ft. of space devoted to trades instruction. In addition to the equipment, students have access to mentorships, apprenticeships and hands-on experience through strategic partnerships with local companies.
"It is important for students, parents and teachers to understand the benefit technical education provides and have the opportunity to explore potential careers with hands-on experience prior to graduating high school," said Scott Moore, Union Pacific's Senior Vice President - Corporate Relations, Chief Administrative Officer and Union Pacific Foundation President.
"Industries nationwide are in dire need of qualified, talented trades workers," said Tyler Owen of Owen Industries and a 1990 Westside High Graduate. "This facility will provide top instruction and opportunity for our future workforce. We are investing in a new generation of engineers, welders and industry experts who we hope join our Nebraska and Iowa based companies and economy."
"My hope is that the Omaha business community can hold Westside up as a model school example for what others should be doing for workforce development," said another project donor.
For more information contact:
Westside Community Schools
909 S. 76th Street
Omaha, NE 68114
402-390-2100
www.westside66.net