WARREN, Ohio – A hands-on youth outreach partnership between REM Electronics and the Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio is helping area middle school students explore modern manufacturing careers and gain real-world insight from people in the industry.
This past school year, REM employees visited students in grades six through eight at Badger, Campbell and Lakeview schools, recently wrapping up the series at United Local. Students participated in a Make It and Take It activity, assembling fully functioning portable radios.
The project began when Sandy Furano, director of innovative workforce pathways at ESC of Eastern Ohio, reached out to business partners to bring workforce experiences into classrooms.
“Their willingness to share expertise and explain how the radios work transformed a simple STEM activity into a meaningful career-connected learning experience,” Furano said.
Guided by REM employees, students followed step-by-step instructions and worked through challenges that introduced the problem-solving side of technical careers. By the end, they had built something real and gained confidence through hands-on learning.
“At every school, one of the most memorable moments came when a few students at each table were able to navigate the tiny screws,” said Jan Dyer, president of REM Electronics. “Their eyes lit up the instant they powered on their radios and heard music through the speaker. What was even more meaningful: Those same students immediately became the helpers and encouragers for everyone else at the table.”
REM employees also shared their career journeys, helping students see there is no “right” path into electronics, engineering or advanced manufacturing.
Some team members were introduced to STEM when they were the same age as the students, while others came through internships, associate degrees or college programs in fields such as engineering and chemistry.
“They’ve received nothing but rave reviews for their engaging presentations and hands-on instruction. They bring energy, excitement and a genuine passion for inspiring the next generation of learners,” Furano said.
The work isn’t over. REM is in discussions with ESC of Eastern Ohio to plan future programs and will also participate in STEM-focused summer camps.
“Kids are learning they don’t have to leave the area to build a successful, fulfilling career,” Dyer said. “Experiences like these replace outdated perceptions of manufacturing with something tangible, creative and technology-driven. You can see the shift happen in real time when students realize they can build, design and innovate.
CREDIT: Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition.