Fusion in Action: Engineering Student Builds a Future at Pennyrile Machine Company

Bradley Schmitt, a Gateway Engineering Pathway scholar from Christian County High School (CCHS), is taking what he’s learned in the classroom and applying it in a real-world setting. Bradley is working on a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) layout for a fabricated metal piece, showing his skills in design and precision.

Through the Fusion Work-Based Learning (WBL) program, Bradley has been able to work with Pennyrile Machine Company (PMC). For years, PMC, led by owner Jeff Holland, has partnered with Christian County Public Schools to mentor students in welding, machining, industrial maintenance, and engineering. Their support helps students gain hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers.

Jeff Holland and his team have gone above and beyond to help students succeed. Their dedication has led to real opportunities for scholars, including one former co-op student who was hired after completing their WBL experience and is still employed at PMC today.

The partnership between CCPS and PMC shows how local businesses can help students build skills and explore career paths. Thanks to Pennyrile Machine Company, students like Bradley Schmitt are gaining valuable experience that will help them achieve their goals.

A big thank you to Jeff Holland and everyone at PMC for supporting CCPS Fusion scholars!

For more information about the Fusion Work-Based Learning Program, or to learn how your organization can get involved, please contact:

Kelly L. Gates
Workforce Programs Specialist
Kelly.Gates@christian.kyschools.us
270-887-7030

Crystal Richards
Crystal Richardshttp://ccpsstudentlife.com
For as long as I can remember, I've been a teacher. My first students were fellow middle school musicians learning to play the flute, and my professional journey officially began at just nineteen years old, balancing engineering classes during the day with teaching preschool in the afternoons. Over the years, I've had the privilege of teaching students from preschool through adults in a wide variety of subjects, including Algebra to web design to English as second language. Those experiences taught me that great teaching isn't about a single subject—it's about meeting students where they are, helping them discover their strengths, and inspiring them to keep learning. Today, I teach 7th grade Social Studies at Hopkinsville Middle School, where I strive to bring history to life and help students see how the past shapes the world around them and that everyone is connected. Outside the classroom, I'm a proud mom of four who loves traveling, writing, creating art, and telling the stories that make our schools and community special. Through CCPS Student Life, I enjoy celebrating the incredible accomplishments of our students, educators, and programs. Every story is an opportunity to showcase the talent, perseverance, and heart that make Christian County Public Schools such a special place.

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