A group of Troy Middle School students took home a regional award this spring after producing a video that showcases careers and innovation in manufacturing, and, in doing so, secured a win in a competition they were entering for the very first time.
The students, working under the guidance of teacher Angela D’Amico, participated in the “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing?” program this school year, partnering with Troy-based Ross Valve to create a short film highlighting the company’s work and the career opportunities the manufacturing industry offers young people.
On April 22, the team competed against 15 other regional middle schools across five award categories — and earned the award for Outstanding Creativity.
The team included Jayden Dickson, Serenity Walker, Jordan McCray, Kireyna Butler, Nyla Washington, Sebastian DiBlasi, Aniyah Huggins, and Madison Donovan
The project gave students hands-on experience with every step of the production process: developing a script, visiting Ross Valve, interviewing employees, and editing the final video.
“What’s So Cool About Manufacturing?” is in only its second year in the region, making Troy Middle School’s first-year win especially notable.