As educators, there are moments when we witness students rise to the occasion and showcase their skills in memorable ways. That’s exactly what happened when two Vantage Career Center students took on the challenge of creating handcrafted gavels that will soon be used by Senator Robert McColley during his term as Senate President for the 136th General Assembly. This project wasn’t just about technical ability—it was about students taking pride in their work and their community.
Senator McColley, who represents Senate District 1, including Paulding, Putnam, and Van Wert counties, is set to assume the role of Senate President on January 6, 2025. To honor this milestone, our students designed and crafted a pair of gavels that reflect the values and pride of the district he represents. It’s a functional piece, yes, but also a symbol of the care and craftsmanship that defines the programs at Vantage Career Center.
Cody Ricker, a Carpentry senior from Lincolnview, and Austen Kinder, a Machining and Engineering Technologies senior from Paulding, worked closely with McColley’s staff to bring this project to fruition. Cody began by preparing the materials, while Austen focused on interpreting the blueprints and measuring the dimensions. As the project progressed, Austin used a CNC lathe to turn the gavels according to the design specifications. After machining was completed, Cody meticulously sanded and stained the gavels, giving them a smooth, professional finish. The result is two beautifully crafted gavels, one of which will serve an important role in Ohio’s legislative process.
A special addition to the gavels is a customized brass band, inscribed with the names of Senator McColley’s children. This thoughtful touch adds a personal connection to the piece, reminding him of the support of his family as he leads in this new role.
The gavels act as a commemorative keepsake for Senator McColley, celebrating his election as Senate President and reflecting the district’s pride in his achievements. These projects required not only technical expertise but also creativity and teamwork—qualities we strive to cultivate in all of our students.
At Vantage Career Center, we aim to provide students with real-world experiences that build their confidence and prepare them for future success. The gavels Cody and Austen created symbolize more than craftsmanship; they stand as testaments to the collaboration, skill, and dedication of our programs and the values of the communities represented.
As Senator McColley takes on his leadership role, we hope this handcrafted gavel serves as a reminder of the exceptional talent and hard work of the students in Senate District 1. The carpentry lab at Vantage Career Center is led by Jerry Robinson, while the Machining and Engineering Technologies lab is instructed by Larry Ray. Their guidance and expertise played an essential role in supporting Cody and Austin through this memorable project.
And then select Ohio Senate Session when there is a “live” banner.