On Tuesday, October 22nd,  the entire 9th-grade class from Decorah High School explored four manufacturing facilities in Winneshiek County: Stanley, Calmar Manufacturing, Gemini, and Deco Products.

This enriching field trip was made possible through a partnership among Decorah High School, Winneshiek County Development and Tourism, NICC, and local businesses. Work-based learning programs have taken center stage in response to a statewide initiative aimed at improving career readiness. Educators and business leaders are committed to helping students make informed choices about their futures.

During the tour, students experienced the full production process at each facility. At Deco Products, for example, they discovered that the plant processes 30 tons of zinc weekly. They observed the entire workflow, from melting the zinc to molding, painting, and preparing products for shipping, as well as the office operations. Throughout the visits, students engaged with team members at various levels, gaining valuable insights into the daily operations of the manufacturing sector. Event coordinator Maddie Putnam-Keck shared, “It was so great to see students engaged throughout the facility tours and learning about all the incredible things being produced in Winneshiek County!”

Students and teachers were astonished by the range of products created, the precision in their craftsmanship, and the impressive volume and variety on display. One person remarked that they could not have guessed even five percent of what goes on in our factories before going on this trip. School Counselor Pat Trewin shared, “Exposing students to the many career options available in these factories can motivate them to learn more about them and make a more informed decision about the career they plan to pursue.”