BEDFORD — Teens at the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County got a firsthand look at careers in advanced manufacturing during a recent STEM Night hosted by volunteers from General Motors Bedford Casting Operations.
About 20 GM employees led activities in the club’s Maker Space, guiding students through a “Foundry in a Box” experience and a technology challenge designed to build problem-solving and creative thinking skills. The evening also included free pizza for participants.
The Foundry in a Box program is an immersive, hands-on STEM initiative that introduces students to the fundamentals of manufacturing in a safe and accessible setting. Through the activity, participants simulate real-world foundry processes, including sand casting, while learning about material science and industrial engineering concepts.
Working alongside GM professionals, teens created sand molds and cores, mirroring techniques used in modern manufacturing facilities. The experience aims to turn complex industrial processes into tangible lessons that help build confidence and spark curiosity.
Club leaders said the program aligns with their focus on workforce readiness and career exploration. In addition to technical knowledge, students developed skills such as teamwork, attention to detail, and critical thinking.
Organizers emphasized that the event also helped strengthen connections between local industry and young people, showing students that career opportunities exist within their own community.
The partnership between GM and the Boys & Girls Club highlights the role businesses can play in supporting youth development and preparing the next generation of workers. Club officials said opportunities like STEM Night can have a lasting impact by expanding horizons and inspiring interest in high-demand career fields.
