State pays a visit; education boss gets an up-close look at student-run program

October 9, 2026 - 03:28

Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Carrie Rowe visited Titusville Area High School on Thursday to see the Rockets Manufacturing facility, a student-run program that gives learners hands-on experience in modern manufacturing. The tour put a spotlight on how the school is preparing students for jobs in a sector that remains a major part of the region's economy.

During the visit, Rowe walked through the shop floor and spoke with students who manage production tasks, operate equipment and handle the business side of the operation. The program is designed to mirror real workplace conditions, with students taking responsibility for projects from start to finish. School officials said the approach helps participants build technical skills while also learning about teamwork, scheduling and quality control.

Rowe praised the effort, noting that programs like Rockets Manufacturing connect classroom learning with actual career paths. She said such initiatives can help address workforce gaps and give students a reason to stay in the area after graduation.

Educators at the school said the program has grown steadily and now serves as a model for other districts looking to blend academics with job training. Students involved said the experience has given them confidence and a clearer sense of what they want to do after high school.