PHILADELPHIA, Miss. – January 13, 2026 – Inside an engineering lab at Neshoba Central High School, students aren’t just learning formulas — they’re designing, building, testing, and discovering what’s possible. From 3D printing and robotics to electrical systems and automation, hands-on learning is helping students connect classroom concepts to real-world applications and future opportunities.
Supported by funding from the Equip MS Grant through AccelerateMS, Neshoba County Schools’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) engineering program provides students with early access to industry-grade equipment and experiences that build confidence, critical thinking, and career clarity. Whether students pursue engineering, law, or another path entirely, the program equips them with practical skills — and a new way of thinking — that extends beyond the classroom.
For sophomore Ely Kilgore, the program stood out early for its creativity and emphasis on real-world problem-solving.
“Getting to see the real-world application instead of just seeing it on a piece of paper — that was really cool,” Kilgore said.
While Kilgore does not plan to pursue engineering and hopes to attend the University of Mississippi and eventually earn a law degree, she credits the program with strengthening skills she uses every day.
“Even if you don’t plan on going into engineering, it helps you in so much more,” she said. “My critical thinking skills have gotten a lot better. I use it every day.”
Engineering teacher and TSA adviser Jaimee Childs said grant-funded equipment allows students to understand how math and science translate into manufacturing, automation, and design.
“It’s not like your normal classroom where they’re trying to solve for X — X actually has a purpose now,” Childs said.
Students work with multiple types of 3D printers to design prototypes, reproduce parts, and learn the foundations of the manufacturing process. Those skills recently took on deeper meaning when Engineering II students used the printers to design a custom prosthetic attachment for a local archer born with an arm deformity, allowing her to safely draw and shoot a bow.
“Several of the students working on it are interested in the medical field,” Childs said. “This project lets them see how engineering can truly change someone’s life.”
In addition to 3D printing, students use robotics systems to learn coding, troubleshooting, and the basics of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Industrial control teaching sets introduce automated systems, while a mechanisms trainer helps students understand how mechanical systems and simple machines operate in the workplace.
Electricity becomes tangible through electronics workstations that allow students to safely explore circuits, microcontrollers, and electromagnets.
“Electricity is really hard because it’s not something you can touch,” Childs said. “The equipment gives students a visual understanding and makes learning much safer.”
For sophomore Lundy Harper, hands-on learning has helped clarify her future. Through blueprint reading, applied math, and engineering projects, she has developed a strong interest in architectural and electrical engineering.
“CTE has helped me decide that I want to be an engineer when I grow up,” Harper said.
She said early exposure has given her confidence heading into college.
“That way, you have a better idea of what you want to do,” she said. “I’m not just a clean slate.”
District leaders say that clarity is one of the most valuable outcomes of CTE programs. Brent Pouncey, CTE director for Neshoba County Schools, said hands-on environments allow students to explore career paths while understanding how classroom learning connects to the workforce.
“Hands-on experience is crucial and critical for students to be able to see what’s possible,” Pouncey said. “We want students to explore, create, and develop a fire and passion at an early age.”
Industry partnerships further strengthen the program by connecting students to facility tours and job-shadowing opportunities, helping them determine both what they enjoy and what paths may not be the right fit.
As the program continues to grow, educators say its impact reaches beyond technical training, preparing students with confidence and problem-solving skills that apply to any future.
About AccelerateMS
AccelerateMS supports the people and businesses of Mississippi by creating and implementing workforce strategies that link individuals to transformative, high-paying careers. Through strong partnerships and effective grants management, the organization promotes sustained individual, community, and statewide economic growth.