Copper Island Academy is seeking a part-time Middle/High School Metals & Manufacturing Skilled Trades Instructor to join our outstanding educational team beginning in the Fall of 2026.

Copper Island Academy, located in the picturesque Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan, is a public school academy committed to preparing all students for college, work, and life success. We embrace a unique blend of highly effective Finnish education practices with traditional American ideals, fostering an environment that nurtures lifelong skill development.

We are seeking a passionate Metals & Manufacturing Skilled Trades Instructor to join our innovative middle/high school team. The ideal candidate will inspire students through hands-on, project-based instruction; promote career awareness in metals and manufacturing fields; facilitate strong community and industry partnerships; and mentor students in SkillsUSA and industry credential pathways.

Preferred Qualifications:

Minimum of 2 years of recent professional experience in metals and manufacturing fields (e.g., welding, machining,metal fabrication, manufacturing technology, industrial maintenance, or related sectors).

Teaching certification preferred but not required.

Experience engaging with industry partners and community stakeholders.

Excellent communication, collaboration, and mentorship skills.

Passion for creating a hands-on, joy-filled learning environment.

Duties:

Metals & Manufacturing Instruction

Develop and deliver engaging, hands-on lessons focused on metals and manufacturing fundamentals, such as welding processes, machining basics, fabrication techniques, manufacturing systems, and workplace safety

Align instruction with curriculum goals and Finnish education principles, emphasizing mastery, independence, and real-world relevance

Foster a growth mindset, encouraging students to embrace challenges, precision, and problem-solving through practical skill-building

Hands-On & Applied Learning

Integrate hands-on projects that build essential technical competencies, including:

Safe tool and equipment operation

Measurement, blueprint reading, and basic CAD interpretation (as appropriate)

Fabrication, assembly, and quality awareness

Design collaborative projects that simulate real-world manufacturing environments, promoting teamwork, communication, and project planning

Career Awareness & Pathways

Embed career exploration into instruction by highlighting diverse metals and manufacturing pathways, including welding, machining, industrial technology, automation, and skilled production careers

Facilitate discussions, guest speakers, and learning activities that connect classroom skills to high-demand, high-wage careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades

Community & Industry Engagement

Build partnerships with local manufacturers, fabricators, and trades professionals to support guest speakers, demonstrations, and mentorship opportunities

Coordinate site visits, facility tours, and job-shadowing experiences to expose students to real-world manufacturing environments

Engage the community in classroom-based projects or service initiatives that strengthen connections between students and local industry

SkillsUSA & Industry Credential Attainment

Mentor students in SkillsUSA instruction and competitions, supporting skill development, leadership, and professionalism

Support students in earning industry-recognized credentia

Copper Island Academy

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