A classroom filled with humming machinery. A project that demands both skill and creativity. And a group of students whose futures are being shaped—one meticulously milled piece at a time.

At Centralia High School, Aiden Endres and Maddy Francois are proof that hands-on learning isn't just a high school elective—it's a stepping stone to careers in civil and mechanical engineering. Under the guidance of teacher Ryan Dinkelman, they’ve spent their time mastering CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining, an advanced manufacturing process that combines computer programming with precision cutting tools. What started as an elective has become something far greater—a launchpad for their futures.

For Aiden, engineering has always been the dream. “Since I was a kid, I’ve wanted to be an engineer,” he said, his confidence in that path only growing stronger through hands-on work. He’s preparing to enter the two-plus-two program at Kaskaskia College and SIUE, a program designed to streamline the transition from a community college associate’s degree to a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. The structure of the program, much like the CAD drawings he’s studied, is built for efficiency—ensuring every class counts, every skill builds toward the next step.

Maddy, on the other hand, didn’t always know engineering was her calling. “I didn’t make the choice until last year,” she admitted. “I was in Mr. Dinkelman’s drafting class, and that’s when it clicked.” Now, she’s headed to Olney Central College to play softball before transferring to a four-year school like the University of Illinois, SIUE, or Missouri S&T. Her goal? Civil engineering—the field that transforms blueprints into bridges, roads, and cities.

The CNC machines in Dinkelman’s class aren’t just about learning to cut and shape materials—they’re about learning to problem-solve, think critically, and apply engineering concepts in real-world scenarios. Students don’t just design projects on a screen; they bring them to life, seeing first-hand how their decisions impact the final product.

“They get to draw something, and then they get to make what they drew,” Dinkelman explained. “It’s not just theory—it’s execution.”

And that execution? It’s not just about their projects—it’s about their futures.

The Changing Landscape of Engineering and Trades

While Aiden and Maddy are headed toward four-year engineering degrees, many of their classmates are taking different paths—some into the trades, some into technical schools, and some straight into the workforce.

Dinkelman has seen a shift in recent years. More students are exploring career and technical education (CTE) fields, recognizing that success isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. Centralia High School is leading the charge by offering a wide range of technical programs, giving students options that match their skills and ambitions.

And as the world of engineering evolves—with automation, robotics, and AI redefining industries—these students are preparing for a future that requires adaptability, technical skill, and, as Dinkelman agreed, strong communication skills.

As they wrap up their senior year, Aiden and Maddy aren’t just reflecting on what they’ve learned—they’re looking ahead.

For Aiden, the hands-on experience at Centralia High School has reinforced his passion for civil engineering, particularly the chance to see projects move from concept to reality. For Maddy, her journey into STEM has been an unexpected but thrilling adventure, one that she’s eager to continue at the collegiate level.

And for Centralia High School, their story is another testament to what happens when students are given the tools, the guidance, and the space to explore their potential.

Because engineering isn’t just about designing machines or structures—it’s about designing futures.