CNH Donation Expands Welding and Manufacturing Programs at Mediapolis Schools

The investment aims to strengthen career-focused education and provide real-world experience for students.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:26am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a welding torch repeated in a grid pattern, conceptually representing the hands-on technical training opportunities being expanded at Mediapolis schools.A vibrant visual celebration of the new welding and manufacturing programs coming to Mediapolis schools, thanks to a generous donation from CNH Industrial.Mediapolis Today

Mediapolis schools are expanding hands-on learning opportunities for students, including new welding and manufacturing classes, thanks to a donation from CNH Industrial. The investment is intended to strengthen career-focused programs and help students gain practical experience before graduation.

Why it matters

The new programs at Mediapolis schools align with the growing demand for skilled workers in manufacturing and industrial trades. By providing students with hands-on training in areas like welding and computer-integrated production, the district is preparing them for in-demand careers after high school.

The details

The announcement was made during an event at Mediapolis Middle and High School, where students and staff gathered for a presentation and check reveal tied to the CNH Industrial donation. New course offerings will include welding, manufacturing, and computer-integrated production and design. Braden Manning, plant manager for CNH Industrial, is a Mediapolis graduate who says the investment is both professional and personal, as the company aims to support the next generation of the local workforce.

  • The donation announcement and new program unveiling took place on April 3, 2026.

The players

CNH Industrial

A global manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment that has provided a donation to expand hands-on learning programs at Mediapolis schools.

Braden Manning

The plant manager for CNH Industrial and a Mediapolis high school graduate, who spoke about the importance of the company's investment in the local community.

Mediapolis Middle and High School

The school district that is receiving the donation from CNH Industrial to launch new welding, manufacturing, and computer-integrated production courses.

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What they’re saying

“This is a full circle moment for me. I was a graduate here nearly 20 years ago, and I can promise you, looking at some of the teachers in here, they would have never thought I'd be here standing in front of you today. I can promise you that.”

— Braden Manning, Plant Manager, CNH Industrial

“When we look at education, we have the textbook side, but we also need that industrial arts side.”

— Braden Manning, Plant Manager, CNH Industrial

“To be able to provide back to youth, it's really an honor.”

— Braden Manning, Plant Manager, CNH Industrial

What’s next

The new welding, manufacturing, and computer-integrated production courses are expected to be implemented at Mediapolis Middle and High School starting in the 2026-2027 academic year.

The takeaway

The CNH Industrial donation to Mediapolis schools demonstrates the value that local businesses can provide in strengthening career-focused education and preparing students for in-demand jobs in manufacturing and industrial trades. By investing in hands-on learning opportunities, the district is equipping the next generation with practical skills that will benefit both students and the local economy.