Southwest Preparatory School high school students recently participated in the Made in Seguin Tour, presented by the Seguin Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and Manufactured in Seguin. The tour gave students a firsthand look at the innovative and high-tech world of modern manufacturing—right here in their own community.
Exploring High-Tech Careers in Their Own Backyard
Students were split into two groups and toured six local facilities: Hexcel Corporation, Rave Gears, Ameritex, Texas State Technical College (TSTC), Cavco Industries, and Schaeffler. Each site offered a unique perspective on the future of industry and the growing opportunities available in Seguin.
At TSTC, students learned how technical training programs are designed with one clear goal—to get graduates into high-demand, high-wage jobs. Programs like industrial systems, welding, and advanced manufacturing allow students to “stack their skills” through hands-on experience, certifications, and paid industry partnerships.
Glenn Grabs, the College recruiter, shared advice that stuck with many students:
“Don’t be the one flipping the hamburger—be the one fixing the hamburger-flipping machine.”
His message underscored the power of technical education in preparing students for skilled careers that can’t be replaced by automation.
Seeing Innovation in Action
At Cavco Industries, students were amazed to see homes being built from the ground up on a fast-paced, highly organized assembly line. Cavco currently produces six homes a day—each engineered for strength, safety, and even hurricane-level durability—and plans to expand production to 10–12 homes daily.
General Manager Layne Womble shared his own career story, inspiring students to “find what you love to do and do it to the best of your ability.” He described Cavco’s family-like culture and the pride that comes with building homes that help families across the country.
The visit to Schaeffler gave students a glimpse into world-class automation. Engineers there design and build their own robotic systems in-house, and the 3D printers were a clear hit among the students. Rave Gears, another tour stop, showcased precision manufacturing for global clients—proving that Seguin’s manufacturing impact reaches far beyond city limits.
Building Pathways to the Future
The Made in Seguin Tour reminded students that rewarding, high-tech careers are available close to home—and that training for those jobs starts now.
From learning how to build a house to programming industrial robots, students saw the full range of possibilities that technical education and hands-on experience can unlock.
Southwest Preparatory School is proud to partner with community organizations like the Seguin EDC to help students connect classroom learning with real-world opportunities—preparing them for success in college, career, and life.