Explore the New Manufacturing announced this week that Ohana Coleman has been recognized with an Emerging Elite in Manufacturing Award. A Hedgesville High School senior, Ohana attends James Rumsey Technical Institute (JRTI), where she studies applied engineering and is a member of the Vex robotics team. Ohana will receive a $500 award designated for scholarships, certification fees, or specialty equipment. She will also be presented with a commemorative wooden plaque and gift basket featuring products made in West Virginia.
“Ohana Coleman is an outstanding student who’s not just defined by her achievements, but by her ability to inspire and uplift others through her dedication and perseverance. She is a role model who goes above and beyond, setting the bar higher not just for herself, but for everyone around her.” Jessie Butcher, NBCT, Applied Engineering/Robotics Instructor, James Rumsey Technical Institute
“Ohana Coleman is an intrinsically motivated student who shows leadership in class not by waiting for opportunities but by creating them. She inspires others through her actions, demonstrating a genuine passion for learning and a commitment to excellence”. Donna J. Van Metre, Director/Principal, James Rumsey Technical Institute .
Launched in 2020, the Emerging Elite in Manufacturing and Outstanding Industry Educator awards celebrate the skills and dedication of students and educators across West Virginia. “As a member of JRTI’s Manufacturing Innovation Challenge team, we had the opportunity to watch Ohana take on projects, assume leadership roles, and become a skilled team member,” said Explore the New Manufacturing’s executive director, Monica Cross. The Explore team is happy to include Ohana Coleman in our 2024 class of Emerging Elite in Manufacturing awardees and wishes her luck in her future career aspirations.”
The Emerging Elite in Manufacturing awards recognize West Virginia high school students who have excelled in manufacturing-related technical education and STEM courses. Each awardee demonstrates workforce-ready technical and communication skills critical to successful employee performance.
Ohana’s award is part of Explore’s Emerging Elite in Manufacturing and Outstanding Industry Educator awards. Profiles of all award recipients will be available on the Explore the New Manufacturing website after they have been announced. https://www.exploremfgwv.com/awards #
About the Program: Explore brings together tomorrow’s workforce with local and regional manufacturing companies to inform students of educational and career opportunities in the state’s manufacturing industry. For more information, visit www.exploremfgwv.com