By Cindy Peterson
Sumter Students Explore Career Paths During Manufacturing Month
October was National Manufacturing Month, and students across Sumter County Schools participated in hands-on activities to learn about growing job opportunities in the manufacturing industry.
The events supported the district’s vision that every student will graduate enrolled in college, enlisted in service or employed in a career.
Nearly 50 students from South Sumter High School and Wildwood Middle High School toured Greenheck Group (formerly known as Metal Industries) in Bushnell on Oct. 14. During the visit, students saw the innovative technologies used to develop and produce HVAC components at the expanding facility. They observed the machinery and manufacturing processes involved in metal fabrication, met with plant managers and employees, and explored future job opportunities. The company also provided lunch for the visiting students.
On Oct. 22, about 60 students from South Sumter High School, South Sumter Middle School and Wildwood Middle High School toured Eagle Roofing Products Florida LLC in Lake Panasoffkee. Eagle Roofing, a major regional manufacturer of concrete roofing tiles, recently upgraded its Sumter facility with automation and robotics.
Students enrolled in manufacturing, robotics and construction programs observed how classroom skills translate to real-world applications. They also learned about safety protocols, workplace expectations and the benefits of automation in modern manufacturing. The visit offered students a chance to explore local, high-skill, high-wage career opportunities.
To close out the month, about 30 students from South Sumter Middle School and South Sumter High School toured Robbins Manufacturing Company in Webster. The visit provided an in-depth look at the piling and post manufacturing process, from tree delivery to lumber preparation. Students observed safety and environmental procedures and learned how the company maximizes use of each log through kiln drying and pressure treatment for dock pilings and power poles.
Through these tours and educational experiences, Sumter County students gained valuable insight into manufacturing careers and the technologies driving the industry forward.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
