Getting a ‘Lift’ on the future with Richmond’s AIS program
Richmond High School students have a great opportunity to learn about heavy equipment through the AIS Program. This class offers safety instructions, operating equipment, and repairing the machinery.
This program is offered to the surrounding districts as well. Not only does AIS provide students with hands on learning, it also allows students from multiple schools who share similar interests to connect with one another.
Richmond High School senior, Preston Keller, sees this opportunity to learn as a beneficial factor to his future.
“As I am preparing to graduate, I am planning my future as an electrician,” Keller said. “I believe the safety instructions and the proper use of equipment I have been taught at AIS will put me ahead of my peers.”
Keller seems to take full advantage of this program to help teach him important lessons he will be
taking with him to trade school.
“Welding and electrical work are the two things I focus on since it is crucial to my future career,” Keller said.
Safety instructions are important when operating machinery. Keller explains
some of the instructions he has been taught during the first few weeks of the program.
“I feel the most important safety instructions are three of four contact at all times, make sure machines are ready before operating, wearing proper footwear
and eyewear such as steel toe boots and safety glasses, and to be aware of your surroundings,” Keller said.
If you are not involved in heavy machinery; you may not be familiar with the three of four-contact rule. Keller explains this safety instruction in detail to help people visualize the instruction.
“Three of four contact is when you must always keep three of your limbs (arms and legs) on the machine,” Keller said.
It is imperative to follow the safety instructions provided by the professionals
to prevent injury to himself and his peers.
It is important for students to find a passion throughout their lives, especially at a young age, and Keller explains how the AIS Program has helped him and all his classmates prepare for the future.
“Working hands on makes us more interested in what we are learning, and it inspires us to work hard in whatever we choose to do in the future,” Keller said.
The AIS program that Richmond High School offers is very beneficial to many students, and it should be a part of the curriculum for years to come.