Educators toured McWane Anniston Operations facilities last week as part of the Alabama STEM Council’s STEM Externship program, getting a first-hand look at the companies’ new technologies and operations.
The three-day program hosted by the Calhoun Country Economic Development Council gave ten educators in the region a chance to connect with local industry and explore the connection between science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) classroom learning and careers.
The group travelled to M&H Valve company Wednesday, learning about the company’s iHydrant technology. A tour of Tyler Union later that day provided the group the chance to see the company’s new Large Diameter Foundry and 3D sand printer.
Pollard also spoke on Thursday in an Industry Leader Panel at the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce alongside others in manufacturing, sharing the importance of a talent pipeline to local industry.
"Anniston Operations’ partnership with the STEM Externship Program enables us to not only form strong relationships with local educators but to demonstrate the opportunities available to the next generation of the skilled workforce," said Anniston Operations Vice President and General Manager Jon Pollard.
Executive Director of the Calhoun County Economic Development Council Don Hopper shared the program has increased educator awareness around industrial careers in the area and that it is equipping educators to inspire talent in the local community.
The companies’ involvement with the program reflects Anniston Operation’s commitment to strengthening STEM and career technical education, building upon recent investments in six STEM classrooms in the local region, Tyler Union Cardinal Foundation scholarships at Gadsden State Community College, industry partnerships with East Alabama FAME and support of AcaSTEMic’s STEM Extravaganza.