Rutherford-based business, New England Trading (NET), is giving local school students the opportunity to learn valuable new skills as they manufacture a custom-made trailer at the HVTC Skills Centre.
Six Year 10 Maitland Grossman High School (MGHS) technology students are spending two weeks constructing a 1500mm wide, 2700mm long trailer that will transport the school’s CO2 car racing track and equipment.
As part of their STEM Program, MGHS students designed and manufactured miniature CO2-powered racing cars to compete against others schools at a regional, national and international level. Transportation of the 25-metre-long raised track and a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router will enable other schools in the region to utilise the equipment and allow a much larger number of students the opportunity to participate in the program.
Jennifer Sellers-Fogarty, MGHS Senior Careers and Transition Adviser, said exposure to this type of program has led to numerous students from MGHS and the Hunter being well prepared and targeted for advanced manufacturing and STEM careers.
“The school thanks NET for assisting with the provision of materials and HVTC for partnering with us to provide the manufacturing expertise needed to undertake and complete this project,” Jennifer said.
During the trailer construction the students will learn welding, fabrication, safety, assembly and painting skills as well as how to interpret plans.
NET Operations Manager, Michael Ross, said the company was excited to contribute to the trailer project by sponsoring the cost of construction materials.
“The trailer is looking good so far and I’m eager to see the finished product,” Michael said. “The skills the students learn on this project are important ones that can be utilised in a number of trade areas. We will be keeping an eye on their performance with a view to filling possible 2017 school-based traineeships and other future recruitment opportunities.”
For 29 years, NET has specialised in the refurbishment of demountable school buildings and currently hosts eight HVTC apprentices, trainees and school-based trainees across multiple trades including construction, engineering fabrication and painting.
