Westminster Tool Makes Donations to Local Makerspace, SkillsUSA Programs

Westminster Tool announced that it has made donations to Moosup Elementary School’s Makerspace program and H.H. Ellis Technical High School toward their SkillsUSA program. Made in celebration of Manufacturing Month, the donations, totaling over $5,000, provide continued support for these programs.

On Oct. 16, Westminster Tool invited 15 third grade students from Moosup Elementary to visit the shop, highlighting manufacturing careers. The day included a tour of the facility and provided the opportunity for Westminster Tool staff to meet a few of the students who benefit from the Makerspace program. Joined by State Representatives Anne Dauphinais and Brian Lanoue, the event culminated with Westminster Tool presenting a $5,186 donation to Moosup Elementary and Shepard Hill Elementary.

“Westminster Tool has been a huge supporter of this program because it helps the community by reaching students to promote hands-on-learning, problem-solving and innovation, all key components needed in manufacturing,” said Kimberly Coombs, director of community engagements and recruitment, Westminster Tool. “This donation further supports the Makerspace program, providing the funds to purchase additional project supplies.”

The company was also recognized as a 2019 Educational Outreach Award winner by the American Mold Builders Association (AMBA). In advance of Manufacturing Day (Oct. 4), three AMBA members received the honor and were awarded scholarships of $1000, $750 and $500 to donate toward their educational program or institution of choice. The award is given to companies in the manufacturing industry for continued educational outreach efforts and their ability to raise interest in manufacturing careers.

“It is a tremendous honor to receive this award from the AMBA,” said Coombs. “We are thankful for their support as we continue efforts to promote manufacturing education in the Plainfield community.”

Westminster Tool made a significant impact in promoting manufacturing careers through the company's fifth annual 5K run, where the company raised $10,000. Through this and other efforts, they were awarded third place. On Oct. 24, the company donated the $500 scholarship to the SkillsUSA program at H.H. Ellis Technical High School, Coombs’ alma mater.

“At Westminster Tool, we want to be more than another business in town, we want to play an active role in supporting our schools, students and local community,” said Coombs. “Thanks to AMBA, we can support more student teams as they compete in robotics competitions for CTSkillsUSA in March.”

To learn more about Westminster Tool’s community involvement, visit www.Westminstertool.com.