Students at the Rocket Academy dont learn in the traditional classroom. Instead, they wear safety goggles and gloves while operating heavy machinery. The Academy is a new public charter school dedicated to advanced technical education.Programs include manufacturing, industry 4.0, HVAC, and welding."Really what we're trying to push and provide is that next generation of workforce talent, said Board President Michael Dietrich.There are so many awesome opportunities at this age just for getting into this type of field. Every single company, no matter what sector they're in, is looking for young talent who understand automation, mechatronics, and electromechanical systems. That is a huge, huge demand right now." In 2021, the manufacturing industry comprised more than 35% of Sheboygan County's employment, and its only expected to grow.The school runs through the Cedar Grove-Belgium School District but students from neighboring counties can also attend tuition-free."We don't pay for anything, said Senior Granite Beardsley, who is finishing the machining program. "It's been a great idea out of normal high school to go learn a trade to move into for a full-time job. Rocket Academy partners with Lakeshore College, Lakeland University and UW Green Bay so students can earn dual enrollment credits in the program some even coming out with Associates degrees.They are also required to participate in a youth apprentice program supplementary to their coursework."You go to school three days a week and work in the field on the off days, explained Senior Derek Schlenvogt.Its like killing two birds with one stone. I can get my high school education and then I can also get industry-recognized certificates." Core credits like math, English, social studies and science are baked into the lesson plans. The concepts are tailored to the students career paths."Every student asks, 'Why are we learning this? explained Dietrich. And here, it's very very intentional."I didnt feel like I was falling behind because I was at my own pace, added Schlenvogt."College isn't for everyone, Beardsley said, but whether it's a four-year degree or the trades, he agrees that they both help the economy in different ways."Its about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for TMJ4 on your device.Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip