Staff report

Valley STEM + ME2 Academy has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation to support technical education and career preparation in CNC machining and related manufacturing technologies.

This marks the third consecutive year the Canfield-based academy has received funding from the foundation, with previous grants totaling $8,000 in 2023 and $5,000 in 2024.

The grant will help expand opportunities for students enrolled in machining-based programs, such as engineering design and advanced manufacturing. Funding will be used for student scholarships, program supplies and consumables, and to cover travel expenses for national competitions, where students demonstrate their technical skills and problem-solving abilities on a competitive stage.

In addition to supporting current students, the grant also will benefit Mahoning County Career and Technical Center graduates pursuing further education or entering the workforce in machining or manufacturing-related fields.

“This funding provides our students with critical opportunities to advance their skills, build industry credentials and prepare for successful careers in advanced manufacturing,” said Dr. Mara Banfield, Valley STEM + ME2 Academy’s superintendent and the center’s career tech director. “We are incredibly grateful to the Gene Haas Foundation for investing in the future of our students and in the workforce of tomorrow.”

Founded by Gene Haas of Haas Automation, the Gene Haas Foundation supports manufacturing education programs nationwide. The foundation’s mission is to empower the next generation of skilled tradespeople and address the workforce shortage in America’s manufacturing sector through education and hands-on experience.