Skilled Trades Academy
The Ottawa County Skilled Trades Academy (STA) is a comprehensive, credit-based program designed to prepare students for careers in various technical and trade professions. The academy provides a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training, focusing on essential skills and knowledge required in fields such as engineering, production, machine operation, welding and more. The academy aims to equip Ottawa County students with the skills and education necessary to fill in-demand jobs.
The STA combines classroom instruction from Vanguard Sentinel Career & Technology Center, and a dedicated workshop area where students engage in practical lab activities, learn to use industry-standard equipment, and receive training in safety protocols. This combination prepares students for the MSSC Certified Production Technician exams and assessments.
The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit, industry-led organization dedicated to developing a highly skilled workforce for the manufacturing and logistics industries. MSSC provides standardized training, assessments, and certifications that validate the core competencies needed by front-line technicians across various sectors.
CERTIFICATIONS
OSHA 10-Hour
Provides foundational safety education with a focus on recognizing, avoiding & preventing workplace hazards. The certification demonstrates a worker’s commitment to safety and their knowledge of key safety practices, and is often required for certain jobs.
CPR/AED/FIRST AID
Aims to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to handle a variety of emergency situations. This certification provides crucial knowledge that can save lives in emergencies, especially in the critical minutes before professional help arrives.
FORKLIFT TRAINING
Educates operators on safe forklift operation, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and equipment damage in the workplace. Students must pass a written test and a practical driving test to demonstrate their competence. This certification is valid for three years.
BASIC WELDING TRAINING
Introduces students to the core concepts and practical skills of welding. The course equips students with the ability to perform basic welds, understand welding processes, and adhere to industry safety standards.
FESTO AC/DC
Provides state-of-the-art training that is specifically designed to introduce students to the basic principles of electrical circuits. The training also introduces students to troubleshooting electrical circuits.
Students not only have the opportunity to earn nine certifications, but they also get the chance to participate in SkillsUSA, a national organization that empowers students by developing their technical, leadership, and workplace skills. Through SkillsUSA, students can compete in a variety of hands-on, career-focused challenges that enhance their education and prepare them for success in their chosen fields.
William Hutchisson Leadership Award
William (Bill) Hutchisson was a driving force behind the Ottawa County Skilled Trades Academy. His dedication to education and student development made a significant impact, guiding students toward rewarding careers in trades like manufacturing, construction, HVAC, and electrical work. Bill’s commitment to student success went far beyond the classroom, as he consistently provided guidance and support to help students reach their full potential. In August 2023, Bill unexpectedly passed away from a motorcycle accident.
To honor his memory and to ensure his dedication continues to inspire future generations, the BAC established the William Hutchisson Leadership Award. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership through encouragement and collaboration with students, staff, partners, and employers.
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
STA HOSTS HOLIDAY FUN
In December 2024, STA students hosted over 80 4th grade students from Benton-Carroll-Salem Local School District. They came out to the academy and painted ornaments, crafted by our skilled trades students. The 4th graders also got to try on PPE, use a virtual welder and use a power drill to make holes in scrap wood.
LOGISTIQ GOLF SCRAMBLE 2024
LogistiQ held their 2nd golf scramble in July where all proceeds benefited the STA. In September, LogistiQ presented a check from the golf scramble to the BAC with a value of $60,000 thanks to the generous match from Jerry Guerra, President of LogistiQ. All funding will go towards equipment and supplies to enhance our students' hands-on learning experience.
GRADUATION 2024
STA students celebrated a unique milestone as they graduated from the Ottawa County Skilled Trades Academy. Several students received special recognition for their success and their impact on the program and those around them. The Phoenix Award was presented to Jacob Minton-Lewis. The William Hutchisson Leadership Award was presented to Ethan Crawford.
SKILLSUSA 2024
May marked the second year the Ottawa County Skilled Trades Academy representation at SkillsUSA State Competition in Columbus. Joseph Apple (Port Clinton City School District) and Kaden McWatters (Genoa Area Local Schools) together placed 7th out of 14 teams in the Mechatronics competition. Individuals in Mechatronics career fields use mechanical engineering and electronic skills to design and develop new products.
SAFETY CONFERENCE 2024
STA students attended the TRU Safety Conference and had the opportunity to learn about harmful silica in construction, violence in the workplace elements, toured a U.S. Coast Guard response boat and learn about boating safety. Gage Johnson (Port Clinton City School District) was chosen to do a demonstration on how to get out of a car that has been compromised with an electrical cable.
CAREER SIGNING DAY 2024
The second Career Signing Day was held in May where each student signed a letter of commitment to their respective future employer upon graduation. Employers, parents, and school representatives were in attendance. Employers consisted of LogistiQ, Official Village Of Oak Harbor, Ohio, Village of Genoa, Telamon Construction Inc, Port Clinton Manufacturing, Northern Manufacturing Co., Holcomb Enterprises.
