VEKA and Riverside High School Celebrate Manufacturing Day 2025

On Manufacturing Day 2025, VEKA proudly joined Riverside High School to celebrate the power and potential of modern manufacturing. Held annually on the first Friday in October, Manufacturing Day is designed to showcase the exciting world of manufacturing to students, educators, and communities. It’s a day to break outdated stereotypes, highlight skilled career paths, and connect the next generation with opportunities that are right in their own backyard.

This year, VEKA’s visit to Riverside was more than a presentation—it was a homecoming.

A Team That Knows the Journey Firsthand

VEKA’s representatives included Training Manager Thomas Van de Bunt, along with Riverside alumni and VEKA employees Tyler Cornelius, Matthias Stockman, and Austin Meade, as well as team members Dominic Greco and Nate McAfee. Every one of them has gone through VEKA’s apprenticeship program, a testament to the company’s commitment to hands-on learning and career development.

They were warmly welcomed by Principal Nicole Pauline, Technology Education Teachers David Brunger and Jordan Curcio, and a group of 60–70 Riverside students—many of whom may one day follow in their footsteps.

Real Stories, Real Paths

Matthias Stockman, a 2003 Riverside graduate, shared a story that resonated deeply with students. Unsure of his path after high school, Matthias found inspiration when a VEKA representative visited his school—just like he was doing now. He began an internship during his senior year, taking classes in the morning and working at VEKA in the afternoon. He had an inside connection: his father worked at VEKA, and the company was just down the street from their home. Starting as summer help, Matthias worked his way up from laborer to machinist, then completed the Tool & Die apprenticeship to become a Tool and Die Maker. Today, he’s the Tool and Die Supervisor, with 22.5 years of experience at VEKA.

Tyler Cornelius, with 11 years at VEKA, also found his way through proximity and opportunity. After a brief stint in the plumber’s union, Tyler realized the travel-heavy lifestyle wasn’t for him. A friend introduced him to VEKA, where he started as a Set-Up Operator, then advanced to Operator. He entered the Tool & Die Apprenticeship program, earned his Journeyman’s papers, and now serves as Tooling Maintenance Modification Supervisor. Tyler enjoyed reconnecting with his former teachers and was impressed by the upgrades in Riverside’s metal shop.

Austin Meade, Class of 2016 and a Kent State Architecture graduate, brought a unique perspective to VEKA. He began as summer help and became the first participant in VEKA’s CAD/CAM Apprenticeship program. His passion for continuous learning led him to Autodesk University in San Diego, where VEKA sent him to explore cutting-edge CAD tools. One of Austin’s favorite moments was programming a custom part that became a hit with the team. “I enjoy being able to help improve the plant through designing new layouts or improving plant functionality,” he shared.

Why VEKA Is a Great Fit for Local Students

VEKA’s values—growth, innovation, community, and opportunity—make it an ideal place for students who aren’t sure what they want to do after high school. With structured apprenticeship programs, mentorship, and a culture of internal promotion, VEKA offers a clear path from entry-level roles to leadership positions.

And for Riverside students, the connection is even stronger. VEKA is local, accessible, and deeply invested in the community. A large percentage of VEKA’s future critical positions are expected to be filled by Riverside graduates, continuing a legacy of collaboration and shared success.

Manufacturing Day 2025 was more than a celebration—it was a reminder that the future of manufacturing is bright, and it’s being built right here in our community. With VEKA and Riverside working hand-in-hand, students have a powerful launchpad to discover their potential and shape the future.

Thank you to Jennifer Brown from the Riverside Guidance Office for capturing and sharing photos from the event.