Accede Mold & Tool Co., Inc., recently recognized as the American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) 2024 Mold Builder of the Year, has reaffirmed its commitment to technical education and manufacturing innovation with a $5,000 endowment to Edison Career & Technology High School’s Precision Machining Program. Sponsored by Progressive Components, this generous contribution was celebrated during a special ceremony at Edison Tech’s machine shop, showcasing the school’s critical role in shaping the future of skilled trades.
Roger Fox, Owner and President of Accede, highlighted the deep bond between the company and the school, stating, “Accede wouldn’t be where it is today without the relationship with Edison Tech.” This partnership is evident in Accede’s workforce, where 13% are Edison Tech alumni. Many hold leadership roles, including an officer position, and several have been with the company for more than half of its 43-year history, driving its success and innovation. Over the years, countless Edison graduates have built careers at Accede, contributing significantly to its growth.
Edison Alumni at Accede: Shaping the Future of Manufacturing
The achievements of Edison Tech graduates at Accede Mold & Tool highlight the transformative power of this collaboration:
- Chris Kuhn (Class of 1989, Machine Technology) – 35 years of service
- Matt Stevens (Class of 1988, Technical Machining) – 34 years of service
- Keith Kane (Class of 1993, Technical Machining) – 31 years of service
- Camille Sackett (Class of 1993, Drafting & Design) – 27 years of service
- Mark Freida & Jay Stuhler (Class of 1997, Advanced Machining) – 25 years each
- Ed Rodriguez (Class of 2005, Engineering & Manufacturing) – 20 years of service
Matt Stevens shared, “Edison Tech provided me with the opportunity to learn a trade, which became the foundation for my career at Accede.” Similarly, Ed Rodriguez, now CNC Manager at Accede, praised Edison Tech for equipping him with essential technical and problem-solving skills. Camille Sackett, Accede’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, reflected on her own journey, stating, “My education and co-op experience at Edison Tech provided me with the foundational skills necessary to begin my career in mold design.”
Investing in the Next Generation of Skilled Trades Professionals
The $5,000 endowment will directly bolster Edison Tech’s Machine Shop program, enabling students to gain the hands-on experience and technical knowledge necessary for thriving careers in manufacturing. During the ceremony, Edison students and faculty expressed heartfelt gratitude for this meaningful investment, and attendees toured the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, gaining insight into the diverse opportunities available to students.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Growth
Accede Mold & Tool’s enduring relationship with Edison Tech exemplifies the impact of industry-education partnerships. Edison alumni have been integral to Accede’s growth, bringing technical expertise and leadership that have shaped its trajectory. Through this endowment, Accede not only honors its history but also invests in the future of manufacturing and the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
For more information on the event and Accede’s collaboration with Edison Tech, visit Edison Tech’s News Site or read the full coverage on 13WHAM and RochesterFirst.
Pictured above, Accede Mold & Tool’s Edison Tech Alumni: Keith Kane, Mark Freida, Matt Stevens, Jay Stuhler, Ed Rodriguez, and Camille Sackett.
