HEMLOCK, MI – A $100,000 commitment from Hemlock Semiconductor Operations (HSC) toward Hemlock Public School District’s new Hemlock Area STEM Center is proving to be the catalyst to begin construction on the project first unveiled in October 2018.
Groundbreaking will take place in early March with an estimated completion date of June 2020. The facility will serve as a regional foundation to inspire Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) exploration by kindergarten through high school students from Merrill, Swan Valley, St. Charles, Freeland and Hemlock school districts.
The 60’ x 80’ facility will be built on land provided by the school district near Hemlock High School. Students using the center will learn 21st century employment skills such as coding and computer-aided design, how to run electronic control systems and electronic milling machines and master emerging technologies such as CNC and 3D printing. The space also will support area FIRST robotics groups.
“Providing an avenue for local students to develop a passion for skilled trades and engineering is critical for HSC’s future workforce,” said HSC Vice President of Manufacturing Andy Ault. “FIRST Robotics provides a fun and competitive way to engage K-12 students in STEM and the new center will provide an environment to expand this engagement across the region.”
The $100,000 that HSC has committed will enable groundbreaking for the STEM center building to take place. HSC also will match up to $25,000 in additional funds to encourage other businesses to support the full outfitting of the center’s tools and safety features.
"We’re excited to partner with Hemlock Semiconductor and other sponsors to expand the footprint of STEM education in western Saginaw County,” said Hemlock Superintendent Don Killingbeck. “It will be of great benefit to the students who will have access to programs and equipment that will give them a head start in their careers.”
Some learning activities are expected to be held as soon as the center is completed this summer. FIRST Robotics teams will begin using the facility in the fall.
About Hemlock Semiconductor
Hemlock Semiconductor Operations (HSC) is a joint venture between DuPont, Corning Inc. and Shin-Etsu Handotai. HSC is a leading provider of ultra-pure polycrystalline silicon and other silicon-based products used in the manufacture of semiconductors for electronic devices, solar cells and modules. HSC began operations in 1961. To find out more, go to http://www.hscpoly.com.
About Hemlock Public School District
For more information about this or other positive happenings in the Hemlock Public School District, visit us on the web at www.hemlockps.com. Please feel free to contact Technology Director Tom Lockwood, or Superintendent Don Killingbeck at (989) 642-5282 to learn more.
