Upper-level carpentry students from the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center are expanding their knowledge of cutting-edge construction technology thanks to local manufacturers Power Truss and HempWood who continue to generously support technical education programs at the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center through a collaboration with Graves County Economic Development’s Power in Partnership Program.
The students left their classroom behind to visit two HempWood facilities in Murray where Founder Greg Wilson gave them a close look at the production methods he had shared while visiting the class earlier in the semester. Wilson walked the class through the process of creating HempWood, from plants to products, and shared his personal business philosophy.
In the afternoon, Power Truss Vice President Brad Power led the students on a tour of the Company’s Mayfield production facility. He pointed out trusses designed in-house that were heading to a new dorm on the University of Kentucky campus. During an earlier visit to the upper-level carpentry class, Power had walked the students through the truss design software, and the UK dorm project specifically. He also talked about the company's proud family history and how they constantly look to both expand their facilities and maximize efficiency.
“It was a great group of young adults who visited HempWood,” said Wilson. “I graduated from a Tech High School in 2001, and it is an honor for me to pay it forward to the next generation.”
“It was a wonderful opportunity to have the carpentry class visit Power Truss,” said Brad Power. “Exposing these students to local industry provides them with insight about future employment opportunities. The construction industry, in particular, has a high demand for skilled labor with tremendous potential for career growth.”
“Thanks to these local companies for their support of our ATC and for taking part in our Power In Partnership program,” said Kevin Hutchens, ATC carpentry instructor. “Thanks also to Graves County Economic Development for covering transportation costs and all their work this year in collaborating with us on Power in Partnership.”
“Power in Partnership provides outstanding opportunities for students in Graves County, thanks to the generosity of our local businesses,” said GCED President Jason Lemle. “We are setting the stage for economic growth now and in the future with a well-trained and well-prepared workforce to meet the needs of local employers.”
HempWood is the pioneer in the development and production of hemp flooring and lumber products made from industrial hemp, offering a sustainable, healthy, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood. Based in Murray, KY, HempWood is proud to be made in the USA and is dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of the building materials industry through innovation and collaboration with local Kentucky farmers. Visit www.hempwood.com to learn more.
Power Truss opened its doors in Mayfield in 1979 as a 5,000 sq/ft manufacturing enterprise whose mission was to create a product and a business that served the needs of their customers and the community. Their high standards for service and product quality became the cornerstones of their success. Today, Power Truss operates in a state-of-the art, 70,000 sq/ft. manufacturing facility and those same values have carried over to the next generation.
The ATC’s carpentry program is designed to prepare students for employment in the residential and commercial construction industry. Students are involved in blueprint reading, layout, fabrication, walls, floors, ceilings, and roofs of structures. Students will use several forms of materials such as wood, metal, plastics, fiberglass, Styrofoam, and concrete in the construction process. The care and safe use of hand tools, power tools, and equipment is emphasized during training. The ATC is located on the Mayfield High School campus and educates students from Mayfield Independent Schools, Graves County High School and Carlisle County High School.
About Graves County Economic Development
Graves County Economic Development began in 1981, becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community. It continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to grow in Graves County. There are 44 industrial businesses in Graves County that employ 2,300 people in the community.
