INA, Ill. (June 3, 2025) — A group of Thompsonville High School students recently took advantage of a career-focused tour of the campus and programs at Rend Lake College.
Leslie Prior's Thompsonville High School class taking a tour of the RLC campus.
Leslie Prior’s class recently had the chance to explore programs in the Applied Science & Technology division during the campus tour. With stops in the Culinary Arts and Welding departments, the students had an up-close look at hands-on education and career opportunities awaiting them at RLC.
"When high school students step into our career-technical education learning labs and areas, they don’t just see equipment — they begin to see possibilities," said Shari Carpenter, RLC Dean of Applied Science & Technology. "Showcasing our facilities inspires them to think about their future, makes a connection between classroom learning and real-world skills, and opens doors to in-demand careers they may never knew were within reach."
The day kicked off with a visit to the Culinary Arts department, where students got a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of creating delicious cuisines. The students met with Chef Instructor Daniel Brock and were able to learn more about the program and career possibilities.
The next stop was at the Welding Lab, where sparks flew both literally and figuratively. Students met Welding Instructor Mike Meinert who demonstrated how this high-demand trade blends skill and precision.
The group learned how the program equips students with the technical skills needed for modern industries. They discovered how this program can lead to careers in manufacturing, construction and more!
RLC Welding Instructor Mike Meinert (right) shares welding tips with Thompsonville students.
Outside of the Applied Science & Technology division, Prior's class continued their visit to programs in the Allied Health Division and dropped by to see the Career Technical Education Student Success Center, located in the Slankard Learning Resource Center.
Registration for the Fall 2025 semester is open! Click here to fill out a quick interest form or schedule an appointment with a RLC advisor at rlc.edu/academic-advisement.
If you would like to schedule an in-depth tour of RLC programs this summer, click the button below.
