TOMAHAWK – Tomahawk High School (THS) last week announced that its Innovation Lab was awarded a grant from CNH Industrial/CASE Construction Equipment.
Instructor Andy Peissig said the $16,989.00 contribution represents more than just new equipment.
“It represents opportunity, innovation, and a direct connection between education and the evolving world of industry,” he stated.
Peissig explained that over the past several years, the Innovation Lab has grown into a dynamic space where students design, prototype, manufacture and market real products using professional-grade equipment. Students currently work with laser engravers, CNC routers, CNC plasma torches, 3D printers, printer cutters, heat presses, UV printers and embroidery machines.
“These tools mirror the technology found in modern manufacturing facilities, sign and print shops, product development labs and small business startups across the country,” Peissig stated.
The CNH/CASE grant will allow the Innovation Lab to strengthen and expand these capabilities, according to Peissig.
“With these funds, we have upgraded the embroidery machine software to improve precision, efficiency and design capabilities,” Peissig said. “Students can now create more complex, industry-level embroidery projects while learning digital file preparation, machine programming and production workflow – skills directly transferable to careers in apparel production, branding and promotional product businesses.”
A large-format laminator and a large-format cutter have also been added to the Innovation Lab. Peissig said these new tools allow students to produce professional signage, vehicle graphics, decals and marketing materials.
“When paired with our existing printer cutters and UV printers, students can now take a project from concept to finished product entirely in-house,” Peissig explained. “This hands-on experience exposes them to graphic design, commercial printing, marketing production and entrepreneurship opportunities.”
Peissig noted that the addition of a grommet machine for banners may seem simple, but it completes the production cycle for large signage and promotional displays.
“Students now learn not only how to design and print a banner, but how to finish it properly for real-world installation and customer use,” Peissig said. “This focus on finishing and quality control reflects the expectations of modern industry and prepares students for work in sign shops, marketing firms, and manufacturing environments.”
An additional 3D printer further expands the Innovation Lab’s rapid prototyping capabilities. Peissig said 3D printing is one of the most transformative technologies in today’s engineering and manufacturing sectors.
“From medical devices to automotive components to consumer products, additive manufacturing continues to reshape how products are designed and produced,” he stated. “Our students gain experience in CAD design, iterative prototyping, material selection and problem-solving – skills highly sought after in engineering, industrial design, skilled trades and advanced manufacturing careers.”
Peissig noted that what makes the grant especially meaningful is the connection to CNH Industrial/CASE Construction Equipment, a global leader in construction equipment.
“Their support highlights the growing demand for a skilled workforce proficient in digital manufacturing, automation and design technologies,” Peissig said. “The tools in our lab mirror the processes used in advanced manufacturing facilities, providing students with authentic, career-ready experiences before they graduate.”
Beyond technical skills, students also develop entrepreneurial thinking, according to Peissig. Many Innovation Lab projects involve product development, cost analysis, branding, production scheduling and customer service. Peissig said students learn how to transform ideas into marketable products, giving them a competitive edge, whether they pursue college, technical training, apprenticeships or start their own businesses.
“This grant strengthens our mission to prepare students not just for jobs, but for careers in cutting-edge industries,” Peissig stated. “Advanced manufacturing, digital fabrication, customized production and small-scale entrepreneurial ventures are all growing sectors of our economy. By investing in our Innovation Lab, CNH Industrial/CASE Construction Equipment is investing directly in the future workforce of our community. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and belief in our students. With this support, the Tomahawk High School Innovation Lab will continue to be a place where creativity meets technology, where ideas become products, and where students build the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
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