The Strengths of HHS: Applied Engineering and Technology
Photo from Hamilton High School.
Bronwyn Rhoades
Earlier this year, three Hamilton School District schools were honored with the title of “Program of the Year” by the Wisconsin Technology Education Association. Templeton Middle School and Silver Spring Intermediate school jointly received the award on the middle school level, while Hamilton received the award at the high school level.
The recognition of these programs highlights an often underappreciated sector of HHS. According to the Hamilton course catalog, “The goal of the Applied Engineering and Technology Department is to successfully combine core class concepts with the latest technological trends and applications. We will provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge to project work and advanced hands-on activities. We, as a whole department, want to prepare students for their future, no matter which path they choose to take, by facilitating authentic learning experiences.”
These claims have held true, with the department providing an education that can be applied to whatever a student decides to do after high school. Classes from engineering to welding to woodworking allow students to explore their interests to the greatest extent, a luxury not available at every high school.
Brady Schultz, a Hamilton sophomore, states, “Here at Hamilton High School, students have a wide range of classes that help prepare you for your future. Classes I have benefited from the most were Architecture and Construction because it exposes you to a varsity of careers in the trades. Also, we have had a lot of students that place at the top for Skills USA for woodworking and welding.”
Hamilton senior, Bella Orozco, remarks on the value of the Hamilton graphic arts program, stating, “I think that Graphic Arts is very beneficial for students of all ages. It is a pretty lowkey applied engineering course that allows students to problem solve throughout the entire creative process from a simple idea to full production. The content can be applied in a real world context from simple online design to marketing and various other career paths.”
As these students indicate, not only will these classes allow students to explore their interests, but many provide college credits, experience, and certification that will translate to the professional world. For example, the Graphic Arts Youth Apprenticeship and Manufacturing Youth Apprenticeship courses allow students to gain professional work and instructional experience all while still in high school. Students who choose to take one of Hamilton’s graphics classes have the opportunity to earn Adobe certifications, a requirement for most jobs relating to graphic arts. Similarly, students can increase their professional qualifications through Introduction to Machining and Automation, which provides a chance to receive a CNC certification.
Students at HHS have a world of choices regarding life after graduation. Luckily, Hamilton provides the opportunity to prepare each student regardless of the choice they make when they enter the “real world.” Hamilton’s Applied Engineering and Technology program is an exemplary display of exceptional students taking advantage of programs with excellent teachers, equipment, and curriculum. Should a student at Hamilton decide that they wish to pursue this aspect of professional life, they will not be short on opportunities to grow as a student, and as a member of society.
