Empowering Nikiski Students: Discover How Technical Education Cultivates Essential Professional Skills | Peninsula Clarion

Nikiski Middle/High School is buzzing with creativity and hands-on learning. Students are diving into woodworking, construction, computer design, welding, and more. They’re using advanced tools like saws, laser cutters, and vinyl printers to bring their ideas to life.

Reid Kornstad and Eli Porter lead a range of career and technical education (CTE) courses at the school. They guide students through the use of machinery and help them work on personal projects. This hands-on experience equips students with valuable skills for adulthood.

In the bustling woodshop, middle school students can often be seen busy working on projects. Recently, they crafted wooden boxes with sliding lids. After that, they had the chance to design and laser-etch their creations in the computer-aided design lab.

One of the school’s unique strengths is combining middle and high school education. Kornstad points out that middle schoolers get early access to courses like computer design and welding. This early exposure helps spark their interest in trades early on.

The focus in these classes isn’t just about completing projects. It’s about what students learn through the process. Kornstad emphasizes that projects teach students about the machines and their capabilities. Some students find that they have a creative side they want to explore.

Once students begin working on projects, the teacher encourages them to express their ideas. Kornstad says, “You just kind of say, ‘What do you want to do?’” This approach fosters creativity and decision-making skills.

Students gain essential skills, collaborate with peers, and express themselves in these CTE courses. Kornstad credits the support from the school district and College and Career Coordinator Annaleah Karron for enhancing CTE at Nikiski and beyond.

From the workshops at Nikiski, students create a mix of crafts, functional items, and artwork. They have made plaques for sports awards, engraved water bottles for staff, and even built sheds to sell to the community. The proceeds from these projects are reinvested into acquiring more materials for future projects.

This year, two standout student projects attracted attention: a massive steel fire pit and a working go-kart fashioned from a shopping cart. These projects were showcased at a recent school board meeting, highlighting the students’ skills and creativity.

Seniors Noah Douglas and Gavin Ley discussed how meaningful their CTE experiences have been. Douglas expressed his ambition to work in trades after graduation, eager to acquire every possible skill. His experiences include welding, design, and creating projects for teachers and community members.

At Nikiski, middle school students are encouraged to explore different electives. Douglas found his passion in the shop class, while Ley repeatedly took computer design courses, mastering various machines.

During his junior year, Douglas decided he wanted to leave a lasting legacy at Nikiski. Inspired by the homecoming celebration, he envisioned a fire pit to gather the community. Along with Kornstad and his peers, they designed and raised funds for the project. They creatively engraved the Nikiski bulldog logo along the base and worked diligently to complete it in time for the homecoming event.

On the day of the homecoming bonfire, the community gathered around the fire pit, and Douglas reflected on the surreal moment. “It was an incredible opportunity to leave something here that will last,” he said, with pride evident in his voice.

A plaque inside the fire pit commemorates the hard work of Douglas and his classmates.

Meanwhile, Ley’s “Go-Shopping Kart” made from a broken shopping cart showcases his inventive spirit. He kept the broken cart for years, and for his senior project, he transformed it into a go-kart. This endeavor involved extensive design work, constantly adapting and innovating to create a functioning vehicle.

Every piece of Ley’s go-kart was carefully planned and crafted, showcasing his engineering skills and creativity. He faced challenges along the way, like the brake line not reaching where he wanted. But he adapted by installing a hand brake instead.

Douglas believes that CTE kept him engaged at school. Without it, he might have considered leaving early. He recognized that many students miss out on such opportunities, but those in Nikiski have valuable trade skills by participating in CTE programs.

Principal Mike Crain highlights the importance of these programs. He states, “These young gentlemen are ready for the workforce.” He emphasizes that their preparation is due to the great education they received through skilled teachers, mentors, and collaborative projects.

While Nikiski’s CTE program has prepared students for careers, it has also instilled creativity, teamwork, and practical skills that will serve them well beyond high school.

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