Siplast, a Standard Industries company, recently welcomed back 11th- and 12th-grade students from Arkadelphia High School to its state-of-the-art RISE Center in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Following the success of the first tour in April, this second visit on November 13th, expanded the opportunity for more science, technology, engineering, and mathematics students to receive a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s innovative research and manufacturing processes. Through hands-on learning, the high schoolers gained exposure to career paths available in their hometown.
The RISE Research, Innovate, Support, and Evolve—Center specializes in testing Siplast’s premium roofing and waterproofing systems while providing educational experiences in roofing science. During the visit, Siplast engineers led students through the 12,500-square-foot facility and engaged them in immersive demonstrations of the site’s advanced equipment, including a wind-pressure testing unit with a 10,000-pound hoist and a 2-/4-inch high-velocity hail cannon. This demonstration provided students with firsthand experience in a lab setting and taught them about the chemistry, physics and engineering principles behind Siplast’s solutions and systems.
Image Courtesy of: Siplast
In addition to the demonstration, the visit highlighted the wide range of career paths available at Siplast, from engineering and biology to sales and marketing. “We were glad to welcome back Arkadelphia High School students to the RISE Center,” said Mick Handloser, National Training Development Manager at Siplast. “With more than 100 employees based in Arkadelphia, opportunities like the RISE Center tour allow students to learn about our company’s history, notable projects, and the many roles they may not have previously considered as career options.”
Image Courtesy of: Siplast
The educational visit is part of Siplast’s ongoing efforts to support local youth and inspire the next generation of professionals in the roofing and building materials industry. It was cool to get to see where my mom and dad work and what they actually do,” said Collin LaFont, a junior at Arkadelphia High School and the son of two Siplast employees. “I can’t say that my mom just sits at the computer all day anymore.”
Images Courtesy of: Siplast
To learn more about Siplast and its high-performance product lines, visit www.siplast.com.
If interested in scheduling a high school tour at the RISE Center, please contact Erin LaFont at erin.lafont@siplast.com.
About Siplast
For over 50 years, Siplast, a Standard Industries company, has been at the forefront of developing engineered roofing and waterproofing systems, including modified bitumen membranes, liquid-applied products, and lightweight insulating concrete. Committed to partnering with customers every step of the way, Siplast continues to expand its solutions with a focus on responsiveness, technical expertise, and quality service. Siplast strives to be ranked #1 in customer service while delivering operational excellence and fostering local presence. Learn more about Siplast’s expanded suite of solutions at siplast.com.
