Earlier this June, ART had the opportunity to host local educators as part of the Williams County Economic Development Corporation’s (WEDCO) Educator Bootcamp. Representatives from school districts across Northwest Ohio—including Bryan, West Unity, Anthony Wayne, Montpelier, Delta, and Stryker—visited our facility in Bryan to learn more about what we do, the trenchless technology industry, and what we’re looking for in the next generation of employees.
This is the second year ART has participated in the WEDCO Educator Bootcamp, and once again, it proved to be a powerful way to connect with those shaping tomorrow’s workforce. Nine teachers and one principal joined us for a full day of education, interaction, and hands-on demonstrations.
A Look Inside the Experience
Our team—Cole Andres, Dustin Schlachter, and Lee Drugan—kicked off the day with an overview of ART’s business, the types of roles we hire for, and the work ethic we value most. They were joined by Logan Clemens, who shared his own journey from working summer jobs at ART in high school to now leading projects as a full-time project manager.
Jeremy Herman and Alan Ludwig from S&S Directional Boring also joined to talk about their career paths, showing educators the variety of opportunities available in construction and infrastructure work—even for those who didn’t take a traditional college route.
After the presentations, it was time to get hands-on. Educators were split into teams to tackle a series of fun and competitive challenges—from donning full PPE gear and spraying OBIC material to testing precision with an excavator bucket near a muffin target that had been completed coated with OBIC products. They also completed grout demos and got to try their hand at applying an OBIC lining to a target thickness.
Building Awareness and Shaping Futures
This bootcamp was about more than fun—it’s about showing educators what’s possible for their students. We were proud to explain how ART helps maintain underground infrastructure right here in our community and highlight the value of skilled trades careers. While some students may choose the college path (and we have some team members who went to college before joining us), we’re always looking for individuals who are willing to work hard, show up, and take pride in their craftsmanship.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. One teacher shared that it was the most engaged they’d felt all week. Jennifer Stantz, WEDCO’s Director of Workforce Development, said, “The passion and commitment shown throughout your presentation and activities were a true reflection of how invested your companies are in supporting and inspiring the next generation. It truly made a lasting impression.”
We’re grateful to WEDCO for organizing this impactful program and to the educators who were willing to roll up their sleeves and try something new. As this was the second year we hosted this event, we look forward to making this an annual tradition and continuing to bridge the gap between classrooms and career opportunities right here in Northwest Ohio.
Contact us to learn more and get involved!
