Adrian High School launches hands-on industrial arts program

Adrian High School has launched a new industrial arts program, giving students the chance to explore woodworking and other skilled trades.

The program, taught by experienced educator Tony Aiken, offers hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and equipment, according to a community announcement.

The initiative is supported by Adrian Mechanical and the Lenawee Intermediate School District through a Career Prep Grant, which helped purchase essential equipment.

“This program is another important piece of our Diploma Plus Initiative,” wrote AHS Principal Sam Skeels. “We want every student to graduate not only with a diploma, but also with opportunities to earn certifications or credentials that give them an advantage after high school.

“Industrial arts provides students a pathway to begin developing those skills here at Adrian and, if they choose, continue to the LISD Tech Center for advanced training.”

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The district plans to expand the program by pursuing accreditation from the National Center for Construction Education and Research, with support from the Align Center of Lenawee. The accreditation provides industry-recognized, portable credentials, ensuring students are trained to nationally established standards in the skilled trades.

This story was created by Janis Reeser, jreeser@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Adrian students explore trades in new hands-on program