Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce: Hamilton Heights High School Pioneers Hands-On Manufacturing Education

Written by Art Thomas, Director of Business Development

This spring, Hamilton Heights High School became the first in Indiana to deliver Purdue MEP’s 5S certification to students through Dave Post’s Engineering class—an achievement that not only sets a statewide precedent but also shines a spotlight on the immense potential of engaging high school students in manufacturing education.

The 5S methodology—Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain—is foundational to Lean Manufacturing and is used by thousands of companies annually to streamline operations and drive efficiency. Typically taught to employees after hire, 5S training is rarely introduced at the high school level. But Hamilton Heights flipped the script, giving students a head start on real-world skills that industries desperately need.

Students from all four grade levels and a range of academic interests participated in this hands-on course, where they tackled process inefficiencies in an assembly line simulation. The class wasn’t just about learning theory—it was about doing. The practical format kept students fully engaged as they applied Lean principles, identified the eight wastes common in all businesses, and implemented process improvements. Their enthusiasm and grasp of the concepts were evident during the final run of the assembly line and the awarding of their official Purdue MEP certificates.

This success didn’t happen by accident. It was the result of forward-thinking school leadership and the deep expertise of instructor Dave Post, whose rapport with the students made a lasting impact. The use of a proven curriculum—already rated 4+ out of 5 for effectiveness by thousands of adult learners across Indiana—ensured that the students were getting not just exposure, but meaningful training.

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“The Purdue 5S workshop was one of the most engaging activities we did this year,” states Post. “It was a fun, hands-on activity that encouraged students to solve a problem and work as a team. This activity provided a glimpse into the culture of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.

Without any hesitation, I can say that participants' experience from this workshop will lead to serious consideration of career opportunities within manufacturing. It was exciting to be a part of.”

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For manufacturers interested in workforce development, this program offers a powerful blueprint. Early engagement with students through practical training can create a pipeline of skilled, motivated young talent who understand the core values of continuous improvement and operational excellence. With the right partnerships between schools and industry, programs like this one can scale across the state and beyond.

Hamilton Heights' initiative is more than just a one-time success story—it’s a call to action. Purdue MEP is exploring ways to share this model through webinars and collaboration with other schools and manufacturers. As we head into the new school year, there’s no better time for Indiana’s manufacturing community to get involved.

For more information on how your organization can participate, contact Art Thomas at or reach out to mepsupport@purdue.edu for additional information.

 

Writer: Art Thomas, 317-275-6810, awthomas@purdue.edu