Manufacturing

Manufacturing jobs are increasing rapidly, so trained workers are in high demand. Our lab simulates an on-the-job environment to help students get ready for an entry level position.

You Can Learn:

Manufacturing principles
Use of professional tools
CNC machine setup and operations
Inspection and quality control
To follow precise directions
Communication skills
Assembly and welding

A Successful Student is able to:

Use hand and power tools
Climb, carry, and stand for long periods of time
Use measurements and fractions
Handle a noisy atmosphere
Handle a physically and mentally demanding workload
Complete repetitive work or duties with attention to detail

Meet Our Instructional Staff

Barry Wackerle

Hello! My name is Barry Wackerle and I am the KTC Manufacturing Instructor. This is my fourth year at the Transition Center and I am excited to be working with the students! My passion is to help others and I believe my purpose in life is to teach young people so they can become successful individuals. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and feel rewarded by helping students learn.

Industry Experience

Drafting, Technology Education and Wood Technology Instructor since 2006
Carpenter
Landscaper
Sales Representative.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology Education (IX) from Central Michigan University
Earth/Space Science endorsement (DH).
Working on my Master's degree in Career and Technical Education through Ferris State University.

My wife and I have three children, a dog and a cat. I have a deep love for the outdoors and enjoy many outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, cross-country motorcycle riding and snowmobiling. I enjoy fixing my own cars and trucks and I am very interested in performance engines of all types. My greatest joy in life is spending time with my family.

Amy Albert

Hi! My name is Amy Albert and I work as the Career Technical Education Specialist in the Manufacturing program. I assist students in learning job skills, making them more prepared to begin a job in Manufacturing. This is my first year here at KTC. I came from Lowell Area Schools where I was a Literacy Tutor, K-3, and then moved to the middle school where I was a one on one paraeducator for a young man with physical disabilities. While at the middle school I helped implement a testing center for the special education department.

I went to college at Michigan State University where I played volleyball and studied Communication and Public Relations. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my three children, my dog, and my husband Marty. They keep me busy with their many sports and activities. I also enjoy gardening, reading, and my chickens.