Leland & Gray’s 9th Graders Visit Local Manufacturers

October is National Manufacturing Month, so what better time for students to tour some of Windham County’s local manufacturing businesses? Leland & Gray’s ninth grade class had the unique opportunity to get a glimpse behind the scenes at Commonwealth Dairy, Omega Optical, Fulflex, and True North Granola. Students learned about the various products each business produced, observed employees making products on the factory floors, and engaged in hands-on experiential learning activities such as packaging (and eating!) granola and yogurt. At the end of the tours, students participated in question and answer sessions with employees, learning about entry level positions and career lattices that lead to satisfying and profitable careers.

These tours were organized and funded by BDCC’s Pipelines and Pathways Program (P3), which aims to enhance career awareness and preparedness programming within all four Windham County high schools. The goal is to connect every student to employment opportunities right in their own backyard. BDCC and Leland & Gray are incredibly appreciative of these local businesses that took time out of their busy schedule to enthusiastically introduce us to the world of manufacturing!