La Grande School District and La Grande High School are very thankful this week for Barreto Manufacturing in La Grande. The company donated $13,000 to the LHS welding program. The money will be used to purchase a new hypertherm plasma cutter on the CNC (computer numerical control) machine in the shop, as well as eight new computers with more robust graphics cards to better process 3D graphics.
A CNC machine is a high-precision, automated manufacturing tool that uses computer software to control the movement and operation of machinery for cutting, shaping, and forming materials. At LHS, this machine is one of the most frequently used pieces of equipment in the welding shop and has been out of operation since the start of the school year, said Doug Gisi, Welding Teacher.
Jackie Leonard, CFO at Barreto, said the company is glad to meet these immediate needs and looks forward to continuing this partnership to support students. “It’s great for us to see students come out of the LHS program with some training and who are looking to stay in this area – we may be able to make that a job and career for them someday.”
Superintendent George Mendoza said collaborations between the school district and local companies are essential for the La Grande community. He thanked owner Greg Barreto and Barreto Manufacturing for their generous donation and their commitment to further student opportunities at LHS.
Barreto Manufacturing is owned by Greg Barreto and already provides job shadows and internships for students at La Grande High School. The LHS welding program is part of the school’s robust Career Technical Education (CTE) Program, which guides students into high-wage, in-demand careers.
Representatives from Barreto and LHS talk to students in welding class.
Teacher Doug Gisi shows visitors the CNC machine.