Submitted photos The Mill & Cabinet Program at the Randolph Technical Center was awarded a grant from The Snowshoe Foundation.

Grant funds will help modernize machinery used in the workshop/classroom at RTC.

ELKINS — Last month, the Mill & Cabinet Program at the Randolph Technical Center was awarded a grant from The Snowshoe Foundation.

Grant funds will help modernize machinery used in the workshop/classroom at RTC. With the new equipment, teacher Jon Clingerman hopes to increase productivity and provide safer operational efficiency for students.

“The tech center is an amazing place to be,” Clingerman said. “The atmosphere here is so welcoming, and everyone helps at the drop of a hat. The students here are high caliber and eager to learn hands-on and technical skills that can be utilized after their time here and into the future.”

The Mill & Cabinet Program is designed to be completed while students are attending high school. Students enrolled in the program learn to use various hand tools and CNC machinery to develop skills in cutting, shaping, and assembling various wood products. Cabinets, coffee bars, shelving, and cutting boards are just some of the items students have created in the past.

At the end of the program, students receive a certificate of completion. Many completing students continue using these trade skills as cabinet makers in the local community.

Clingerman, who pointed out vocational employment is at an all-time demand, said, “I believe what we have to offer here at the Randolph Technical Center, no matter what classes they take, can have an impact on the current industry need and create successful careers for our students.”

The Snowshoe Foundation’s grants aim to provide financial support to local organizations whose activities provide benefits to the communities in Central West Virginia. According to the foundation’s website, more than $1.7 million in grant funds have been awarded to various community programs.