Apollo-Ridge School District now has a direct-to-garment printer that will provide students creative and commerce opportunities.

Arconic’s foundation and its technology center in Upper Burrell jointly worked on awarding the $25,000 grant to the district. The Pittsburgh-based metals manufacturer awards grants to community and educational efforts in areas where they operate.

The grant will allow the district to establish an in-house T-shirt printing business.

“All of the school’s clubs and booster groups can now purchase custom-imprinted T-shirts at a fraction of the cost of going outside, which increases their net profits on fundraisers,” said Cris Kostiuk, administrative assistant at the district.

Students in the district’s technology education program’s Apollo-Ridge Inc. class will run the business, she said.

“Arconic Foundation’s partnership with the Apollo-Ridge School District exemplifies our mission to work with our community partners to create engaging learning experiences for students,” said Ryan Kish, Arconic Foundation vice president and treasurer. “The in-house print shop is a creative and fun way to teach technical skills, explore business principles and foster a spirit of entrepreneurship,” he said.

Shawn Sullivan, managing director of the Arconic Technology Center in Upper Burrell, added, “Arconic’s commitment to the community goes beyond exciting careers at the cutting-edge of manufacturing innovation. Our employees take great pride in supporting and volunteering with community organizations in our area.”

Earlier this year, Arconic Foundation donated more than $80,000 to local nonprofits for sustainability and social equity.

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