The Page County Technical Center recently celebrated the successful completion of an interdepartmental project, demonstrating the power of collaborative learning and practical application. Automotive technology and welding students joined forces to design and construct a functional bench utilizing a repurposed truck bed, integrating both structural fabrication and electrical systems.
Automotive Instructor Paul Strassner highlighted the initiative as an engaging method for students to acquire practical skills. “It’s crucial for students to engage with concepts in a hands-on way, especially with subjects like electricity that can be challenging in theory alone,” Strassner explained. “When this truck bed became unusable for its original purpose, the welding instructor and I brainstormed these benches. They handled the welding and structural work, and our team managed the electrical wiring for the taillights.”
Welding Instructor Charles Morris underscored the importance of cross-disciplinary teamwork, emphasizing that success often hinges on collaboration between different trades. “This project truly showcases teamwork and how to work effectively with individuals from different specialties who may possess complementary knowledge,” Morris stated. “It makes the learning process incredibly dynamic when students see how their individual skills contribute to a larger, tangible outcome.”
The technical center’s staff actively seeks such innovative projects, with plans to create items for program fundraising. This collaborative model not only enriches the student learning experience but also prepares them for the interdependent nature of modern workplaces, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills vital for future careers in skilled trades.
