This week another MIC Project kicked off! This project is with Slippery Rock High School and Keystone Ridge Designs, giving students hands-on exposure to real-world manufacturing and design work.
Students in two CADD (Computer-Aided Design and Drafting) classes were introduced to the Keystone Ridge Designs through a presentation and tour followed by the project and learned how their classroom skills will be applied to industry-driven design challenges. Through this MIC Project, students will develop unique design concepts that respond to real products produced by Keystone Ridge Designs.
What makes this project especially impactful is that student designs may move beyond the classroom. Select concepts have the potential to be manufactured, allowing students to experience the full design-to-production process and better understand how ideas become real products.
By working directly with Keystone Ridge Designs, students gain insight into professional design expectations, industry feedback, and the role CADD plays in modern manufacturing. This partnership helps students strengthen technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving while exploring career pathways in engineering and advanced manufacturing.
The MIC Project continues to connect education and industry, providing meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for future careers.
Interested in Participating?
The Manufacturing Innovation Challenge connects high school students with local manufacturers to solve authentic industry challenges while building career-ready skills across technical, creative, and business pathways. Schools interested in joining future cohorts are encouraged to learn more and get involved.
👉 Learn more: Manufacturing Innovation Challenge – Explore the New Manufacturing