West Hills College, Coalinga Celebrates National Manufacturing Day

manufactuing day

Coalinga (DWM) – West Hills College, Coalinga celebrated National Manufacturing Day by engaging employers and exposing 19 students of the welding class (WT-70) to the local manufacturing industry.

Students enjoyed a day of industry guest speakers from the Robert Heely Construction (RHC), Phillips 66, and Granite Construction.  An industry tour of Phillips 66 was very valuable for students as they experienced firsthand what goes on inside a factory. Students heard from employers about the skills required to be a valuable employee and had the chance to network with key plant employees.

The National Manufacturing Day was organized by Raquel Rodriquez, Associate Dean of Student Learning, Cling Cowden, Interim Director, Farm of the Future,  Norman Oilar, Ag Faculty, Sherri Freeman, Ag Faculty, Dr. Tim Ellsworth, Ag Faculty, and JR Valazquez. However, this event was only possible because employers opened their doors for tours, and come out to interact with students. The day ended with lunch which was prepared by the Ag Faculty.

“This is what needs to happen more often in order for our students to visualize what they will be doing once they graduate. Throwing money at problems often does not provide sustainable solutions. This event was successful because faculty took the lead and management supported what is right, student success.” Gurminder Sangha, “Mr. G”, Deputy Sector Navigator – Advanced Manufacturing sponsored this event and is working with several regional high schools and community colleges to provide career exploration opportunities for the students.


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