DIISD Career & Technical Education Center

On Thursday, May 21, the DIISD Technical Education Center Mechatronics students had an incredible opportunity to learn about geothermal energy and renewable power systems from an outstanding group of industry professionals: Eric Kleiman of Kleiman Pump & Well Drilling, Craig Harris and Bjorn Johnson of Sikora Sheet Metal Inc., and Jenna Holl of The New Dermatology Group.

The presenters shared how geothermal systems can efficiently heat buildings in the winter and cool them in the summer while greatly reducing the energy costs associated with traditional heating and cooling systems. Students learned that while the initial installation investment can be significant, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make geothermal an exciting and sustainable technology.

Jenna Holl explained how she oversees maintenance for all eight New Dermatology Group locations using advanced control systems that allow her to monitor equipment directly from her computer or phone. Students were especially interested in hearing about the Iron Mountain facility, which combines geothermal technology with rooftop solar panels to maximize renewable energy use. They even use the system to heat the concrete driveway to help reduce ice buildup during the winter!

Craig Harris and Bjorn Johnson also gave students valuable insight into the contractor side of the industry, discussing system installation, troubleshooting challenges, and the skills needed to work in the field.

This was an outstanding hands-on learning experience that introduced students to a wide range of careers in engineering, skilled trades, system design, automation, and maintenance. A huge thank you to all of our presenters for taking the time to share their expertise and inspire the next generation of technical professionals!

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A huge thank you to Brock Wallis for visiting the DIISD Technical Education Center Mechatronics class to share career opportunities at MJ Electric!
Brock gave an outstanding presentation about the history of MJ Electric and MJ Drilling, while also highlighting the many U.P. employees who have built successful careers within the company. Students appreciated hearing firsthand about the wide variety of opportunities available close to home.

One of the best pieces of advice Brock shared was to use every day on the job as a chance to learn as much as possible. By building skills and staying motivated, the opportunities for advancement can be tremendous. That’s valuable advice no matter where your career path leads!

We truly appreciate Brock taking the time to invest in our students and help inspire the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Electric # MJ Drilling

Kingsford Senior and DIISD Welding student, Evelyn Langin, recently completed her impressive Nautical Star/Compass Project! ⭐🧭

Evelyn designed the overall shape using the SketchUp 3D Modeling program and exported the files as DXF files. The parts were then cut using an automated plasma table and TIG welded together to create the final piece.

This nautical design was also incorporated into a collaboration project with local business owner Summer Saler of Saler Customs. Utilizing the Saler Customs logo, Evelyn’s task was to create a large fabricated sign that will be displayed on the Saler Customs building. The fabrication portion of the project is now complete, and the sign will soon be painted and mounted.

Throughout both projects, Evelyn demonstrated exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, design, welding, and fabrication skills. Her hard work, creativity, and attention to detail truly stood out!

Congratulations, Evelyn, on a job well done! 👏

Be sure to check out Saler Customs for a variety of custom truck parts and kits:
https://salercustomsllc.com

This year was a GREAT year in Graphic Communications! 🎨🖥️

Each month, one first-year student was selected as Student of the Month, and each quarter, a second- or third-year student was selected as Student of the Quarter.

These students were chosen because they consistently demonstrated strong employability skills, including:

⭐ Positive attitude
⭐ Meeting deadlines
⭐ Following instructions
⭐ Participating in class
⭐ Honest effort
⭐ Strong work ethic
⭐ Good time management
⭐ Going above and beyond
⭐ Coming prepared
⭐ Respecting others

These are the skills that help students succeed not only in the classroom, but also in the workplace and beyond.

Congratulations to all of the students who were selected this year!

We are proud of your hard work, dedication, and accomplishments! 👏

On Tuesday, May 19, the DIISD Technical Education Center Mechatronics students had the opportunity to learn about hydroelectric power and the Kingsford Dam from Andy Ross and Joe Mashburn of WE Energies.
Students were fascinated to hear how much of the original equipment and infrastructure from Henry Ford’s era is still being used today. Andy shared the rich history of the facility, including the beautiful botanical gardens that were once maintained by full-time gardeners. Students also learned how Ford’s innovative technology helped shape practices that were later adopted throughout the industry.

The presentation connected perfectly with the students’ recent studies on process controls. They especially enjoyed learning how the dam was once operated entirely by on-site personnel and is now monitored and controlled remotely from Green Bay. Seeing real-world examples of automation and control systems in action made the lesson even more meaningful.

A huge thank you to Andy Ross and Joe Mashburn for taking the time to share their knowledge and experiences with our students!

Engeries # Mechatronics Power

Recently, students in the Graphic Communications class were given the opportunity to design a new billboard for Holy Spirit School. After careful consideration, the design created by Bella Person was selected!

Bella, a senior at Iron Mountain High School, did an outstanding job collaborating with the client to refine the original concept for optimum communication. She demonstrated admirable professionalism throughout the project, and the final result looks fantastic!

Congratulations, Bella, on a job well done! 👏🎨

(Pictured: Catherine Menghini, Holy Spirit School Principal; Bella Person; and Rebecca Frates, Tech Center Graphic Communications Teacher.)

🔧 WE ARE HIRING! 🔧

The Dickinson-Iron ISD is seeking a Head of Maintenance for the Technical Education Center.

📍 Position currently located at the DIISD Technical Education Center with services provided throughout Dickinson and Iron Counties
📅 Position start date: On or after July 1, 2026
🕒 Full-time, full-year position
💲 Starting salary at or above $46,350 based on experience
✅ Full benefits package available, including dental and vision insurance paid 100% by the district
📌 Posting open until filled

We are looking for a motivated individual with maintenance and supervisory experience to help oversee custodial and maintenance operations while ensuring safe, clean, and efficient facilities for students and staff.

Experience in areas such as carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, grounds equipment, and general building maintenance is preferred.

Please share with anyone who may be interested in joining our team!

Send a message to learn more

🚧 WE ARE HIRING! 🚧

The Dickinson-Iron ISD Technical Education Center is seeking a qualified Building Trades Instructor for the 2026-27 school year!

🔨 Position: Building Trades Instructor
📍 Location: DIISD Technical Education Center
🕒 Part-time 0.33 FTE Education Association Position
📅 Application Deadline: Monday, June 1, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. CDT

We are looking for an individual with construction industry experience who is passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping students build skills for future careers in the trades.

This position offers the opportunity to work with students in a hands-on learning environment while preparing the next generation of skilled professionals.

Interested applicants can view the full posting and application details through the Dickinson-Iron ISD employment opportunities page. Please share with anyone who may be interested!

Send a message to learn more

Our students will now have the opportunity to explore 3D printing technology while creating small jigs, fixtures, prototypes, and custom parts for a variety of projects. This equipment will help students build valuable skills in design, problem-solving, and advanced manufacturing.

The donated equipment includes:
🔹 LulzBot TAZ 6 3D Printer — estimated new value of $2,500
🔹 LulzBot Mini 2 3D Printer — estimated new value of $1,500

We are excited to begin learning how to use this technology and incorporate it into hands-on student projects. Partnerships and support from local industry make a tremendous difference in expanding opportunities for our students.

Thank you again, Systems Control, for investing in the future workforce!

🎨✨ Graphic Communications End-of-the-Year Design Show ✨🎨

During the week of May 4–8, 2026, students in the Graphic Communications class showcased their best design work from the school year in their annual End-of-the-Year Design Show.

The exhibition featured outstanding projects demonstrating creativity, technical skill, and artistic growth. The show was judged by Bobbi Johnson, a former student and current Graphic Designer at.

🏆 Congratulations to Our Award Winners!

🌟 Best of Show
Lucas Reed — Board Game Design

🖼️ Top Three in Posters
• John Boivin
• Athena Donnelly
• Aidan Fisher

🎯 Top Three in Branding
• Kaija Hill
• AJ Martin
• Collin Teske

📚 Top Four in Multi-Page/Series
• Natalie Conery
• Athena Donnelly
• Claire Jenness
• Lucas Reed

🎨 Top Three in Miscellaneous Category
• Kaylee Caldwell
• Athena Donnelly
• Claire Jenness

👏 Congratulations to all of our talented students for their hard work and creativity throughout the year. We are proud of everything you have accomplished!