Bluffton, Indiana (Tuesday, December 21, 2021/Don Wood Foundation) –The Area 18 Cooperatives was awarded more than $1 million in funding to purchase advanced manufacturing equipment for five area high schools, thanks to the generosity of the Don Wood Foundation. The help of the Don Wood Foundation grant will enhance educational learning experiences for the students of Adams Central, South Adams, North Adams, Bluffton-Harrison, and Blackford County School Corporations. This funding will support equipment upgrades to ensure that Area 18 students have the skills needed for success in today’s competitive workforce. “We are pleased to be able to support Area 18 and the Advanced Manufacturing programing,” said Laura Macknick, Executive Director of the Don Wood Foundation. “We applaud their pursuit of industry partnerships and training of the next generation. The future of manufacturing will be enhanced by Area 18’s work, which strategically aligns with our foundation’s mission.” Kloer recognizes the importance of collaboration between CTE teachers and local industry partners as an important practice to highlight the marketability, viability, and career opportunities provided by advanced manufacturing in our communities. “Area 18 CTE Cooperative’s partnership with the Don Wood Foundation will allow our students the opportunity to gain the training necessary to...

J. Everett Light Career Center provides programs that allow local high school students an opportunity to explore their passion in an innovative, hands-on, real-world environment. Director & Principal Shawn Wright-Browner offers insight into how the initiative is playing a key role in developing Indiana’s workforce of the future. CLICK TO WATCH THE VIDEO