A group of Ascension Parish high school students recently attended BASF TECH Academy – a newly-launched four-day program hosted at River Parishes Community College (RPCC) in Burnside, Louisiana to learn about technical careers.

“Through our partnership with River Parishes Community College, BASF is introducing students to industries in our community that rely on science and technology in their daily operations,” said Tom Yura, Senior Vice President and Manager of the BASF site in Geismar, Louisiana. “We plan to offer BASF TECH Academy annually to help students make the connection between their coursework in high school and how they can begin preparing now for future careers.”

Thirteen 11th and 12th-grade students who attended BASF TECH Academy completed hands-on activities that reinforced skills needed in technical disciplines and met industry professionals who provided insights into potential careers. The students also toured facilities with a technology-rich focus, including BASF’s site in Geismar, the Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices at Louisiana State University, Louisiana Regional Airport, and the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab.

“BASF TECH Academy was a great experience,” said Lawrence Brown, from Donaldsonville High School. “I gained exposure to careers within the technology field and had the chance to network with other students interested in similar areas. I could see myself working in a technical role in my future thanks to this experience.”

BASF TECH Academy is part of BASF’s workforce development efforts in North America to support recent growth and investment in the regions.  BASF’s manufactuing operations require a skilled workforce to construct, operate and maintain chemical production facilities across the region.

“BASF TECH Academy was a wonderful and enriching experience for local high school students,” said Dr. Dale Doty, Chancellor of RPCC. “The program help expose them to technical career opportunities that will help each of them determine a pathway to economic and career success.  RPCC appreciates BASF’s contributions to the community and continued support of local workforce development efforts.”