Van Buren Tech

Van Buren Tech Van Buren Tech has over 25 CTE programs that prepare students for a variety of postsecondary options. Success Starts Here!

Welcome to Van Buren Tech, a proud affiliate of the Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD)! Our mission is "to empower students to progress toward their life goals" as we deliver exceptional Career and Technical Education (CTE) that empowers students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their future careers or college endeavors. With over 25 diverse CTE programs, Van Buren

Tech offers hands-on learning experiences and the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications and college credits that seamlessly transfer to various colleges and universities. We don’t view ourselves as an alternative to college but as a vital pathway to achieving both academic and career goals. What We Offer:
-College Credit: Earn college credits while still in high school.
-Applied Learning: Gain practical experience through project-based learning.
-Integrated Academics: Combine academic knowledge with technical skills.
-High-Tech Training: Work with the latest equipment and industry-relevant training.
-Michigan Merit Credits: Fulfill graduation requirements with us.
-Industry Credentials: Obtain valuable credentials recognized by employers.
-Workplace Skills: Develop essential skills needed for the workforce.
-Work-Based Learning: Experience real-world work environments.
-Student Organizations: Join CTE student organizations for enhanced learning and leadership.
-Scholarships: Access various scholarship opportunities to support your journey.
-National Technical Honor Society: Join a prestigious honor society for outstanding technical students. Van Buren Tech serves around 1,000 11th and 12th grade students from across Van Buren County. Students split their day between their local high school and Van Buren Tech, with classes available in both morning and afternoon sessions. We collaborate with 15 school districts, offering state-approved CTE programs. Transportation is provided, and there are no fees for attending our classes! Sign Up: If you haven’t enrolled yet, reach out to your local high school counselor to sign up. Whether you join us for one or two years, we’re excited to help you achieve your goals and look forward to seeing you succeed.

Meet Zachary, a junior from Bloomingdale High School and a student in the Engineering and Architectural program at Van B...
01/13/2025

Meet Zachary, a junior from Bloomingdale High School and a student in the Engineering and Architectural program at Van Buren Tech.

His spark for engineering was ignited back in his home school when he took an "Intro to Engineering" class. Zachary quickly found a passion for hands-on work, especially with 3D printers and computers. Upon joining the program at Tech, he noted, “The class exceeded my expectations,” and he has been diving into every opportunity that comes his way.

Throughout his first year in the VBT program, Zachary has already had the chance to attend multiple impressive events. He traveled to Chicago for IMTS, a major international engineering convention where innovators from around the world showcase their creations. This event, one of only two held globally (the other in Germany), left a lasting impact on him. He also attended a SolidWorks summit at Grand Rapids Community College and an Innovation Expo at Western Michigan University. Additionally, Zach and his classmates participated in an online engineering program, collaborating with students from Paw Paw.

In class, Zachary has worked on a variety of exciting projects. One of his proudest creations so far is a custom controller stand that can hold four PlayStation controllers, complete with a slot for a USB chip and charging ports. Currently, he and his classmates are designing rocket parts and Zach is eager to take on solo projects in the future. Some of his ideas include a European mount plaque and a unique piece to hold his snowboarding goggles to his helmet. He’s also excited to experiment with flexible 3D filament to design a basketball in an upcoming project.

Zachary’s leadership skills set him apart as a natural motivator in the classroom. Whether helping classmates with design challenges or taking the lead on group projects, he is always willing to lend a hand and share ideas. His advanced skills as a first-year student have already earned him opportunities typically reserved for second-year students, including attending events and taking on more complex projects.

Looking ahead, Zachary is excited about his future in engineering. He is committed to continuing his education with plans to pursue Mechanical Engineering at Michigan Tech after graduation. He appreciates the focused and goal-oriented learning environment at Tech, where students are dedicated to their futures just like him.

With his drive, leadership, and passion for engineering, Zachary is bound to make an impact in the world of innovation and design.

Van Buren Tech's Allied Health program is partnering with Versiti and sponsoring a blood drive on January 30, 2025 from ...
01/10/2025

Van Buren Tech's Allied Health program is partnering with Versiti and sponsoring a blood drive on January 30, 2025 from 9:00AM until 3:00PM.

Meet Alyssa, a senior from Bloomingdale High School and a Dental Occupations student at Van Buren Tech. Alyssa is pursui...
01/09/2025

Meet Alyssa, a senior from Bloomingdale High School and a Dental Occupations student at Van Buren Tech.

Alyssa is pursuing her passion for dental hygiene through the Dental Occupations program. She chose this path because she values the opportunity to learn about dental care. Alyssa’s favorite part of her class at Tech is the balance of bookwork, presentations, and hands-on learning. She loves the friendships she’s built and the support of her teachers, describing the classroom environment as both welcoming and encouraging.

Her hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed- Alyssa was recently named Student of the Quarter for consistently going above and beyond in her studies. She enjoys diving deeper into course materials, often reading ahead to expand her knowledge and understanding of the field.

One of the most exciting parts of the program for Alyssa is the hands-on experience. During practice sessions, students take turns as the operator and the patient, allowing them to see and understand oral structures firsthand. Alyssa thrives in this setting, and although she describes herself as more reserved in class, her determination and desire to excel are evident in her work ethic. Her future in dental hygiene motivates her to keep pushing forward and there’s no doubt that she will continue to achieve great things.

TONIGHT: Join us for a Middle College info sessionThursday, January 9 6:30pmVirtual via Google Meetmeet.google.com/xxy-m...
01/09/2025

TONIGHT: Join us for a Middle College info session

Thursday, January 9
6:30pm
Virtual via Google Meet
meet.google.com/xxy-mrfw-inv
1-919-480-2815‬ PIN: ‪623 738 472‬ #

Are you interested in Middle College? Attend one of our virtual Middle College info sessions coming up!January 9 6:30pmV...
01/07/2025

Are you interested in Middle College? Attend one of our virtual Middle College info sessions coming up!

January 9 6:30pm
Virtual via Google Meet
meet.google.com/xxy-mrfw-inv
1-919-480-2815‬ PIN: ‪623 738 472‬ #

January 15 12:30pm
Virtual via Google Meet
meet.google.com/oyt-pyrg-kca
1-513-486-2475‬ PIN: ‪909 335 250‬ #

January 21 6:30pm
Virtual via Google Meet
meet.google.com/dbo-jeod-wqw
1-925-621-8059‬ PIN: ‪654 025 371‬ #

January 29 12:30pm
Virtual via Google Meet
meet.google.com/jrv-czfy-vgc
1-573-401-1266‬ PIN: ‪576 860 579‬ #

Van Buren Tech had the honor of hosting two incredible leaders in the world of 3D design and manufacturing: Matthew Cleg...
12/22/2024

Van Buren Tech had the honor of hosting two incredible leaders in the world of 3D design and manufacturing: Matthew Clegg, Influencer and Manager for the SolidWorks Champions program, and Joe Lance, a prolific expert in SolidWorks. Their visit was a unique opportunity for our Engineering and Architectural Design and Advanced Manufacturing students to gain insights and inspiration from some of the best in the field.

Matthew and Joe took time out of their busy schedules to share their knowledge, experiences, and passion for innovation, offering invaluable guidance to our students as they prepare for their future careers in design and manufacturing. Van Buren Tech is especially proud to have our very own Josh Bridges as one of only 400 SolidWorks Champions around the globe!

These individuals are paving the way for success, demonstrating that with the right mentorship and tools, students can achieve greatness.

Congratulations to Gabriel Kooyers, MI ACTE 2024 Teacher of the Year!We are thrilled to announce that Gabriel Kooyers, A...
12/20/2024

Congratulations to Gabriel Kooyers, MI ACTE 2024 Teacher of the Year!

We are thrilled to announce that Gabriel Kooyers, Advanced Manufacturing Instructor at Van Buren Tech, has been named the recipient of the Michigan Association for Career and Technical Education (MI ACTE) 2024 Teacher of the Year award!

Gabriel’s unwavering dedication to career and technical education has set him apart as an outstanding educator and a champion for workforce development. Through his passion and tireless efforts, he has helped prepare countless students for successful careers, while also making a lasting impact on the community.

His leadership and commitment to excellence in education are truly inspiring. Gabriel has gone above and beyond to create opportunities for students to thrive in high-demand industries, strengthening both the local workforce and the broader community.

Please join us in celebrating Gabriel’s incredible achievements and the positive influence he continues to have on the future of education and career development. We are proud to see him recognized for the exceptional work he does every day!

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
Michigan Department of Education
Titans of CNC Machining

Students from the Marketing, Sales & Business class participated in the JA Titan competition at Western Michigan Univers...
12/18/2024

Students from the Marketing, Sales & Business class participated in the JA Titan competition at Western Michigan University's Haworth College of Business. During the competition, students assumed the role of corporate managers for their own simulated companies. Using data such as financial reports and market research, they made decisions on product development, pricing, and production. After the simulation, the team with the highest profit and market share was deemed the most successful.

Our two teams competed against 29 other teams from local high schools, including Portage Northern, Portage Central, Schoolcraft, Gull Lake, Hackett, Pennfield, and Vicksburg. Team members Jose Meraz (Mattawan) and Marktis Parks-Johnson (South Haven) placed 11th, while Jacie McNair (South Haven) and Zac Yelding (South Haven) secured 19th place.

Pictured (left to right): Jose Meraz (Mattawan), Marktis Parks-Johnson (South Haven), Jacie McNair (South Haven), and Zac Yelding (South Haven).

Join us TONIGHT for the 10th/11th Grade Open House at Van Buren Tech from 4:30pm-6:30pm!Come explore our programs, meet ...
12/16/2024

Join us TONIGHT for the 10th/11th Grade Open House at Van Buren Tech from 4:30pm-6:30pm!

Come explore our programs, meet staff, and learn more about opportunities for your future. Don’t miss our Middle College info session at 5:00pm to discover this exciting option as well.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Van Buren Tech
250 South St. Lawrence, MI 49064
Date: Monday, December 16
Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Middle College Info Session: 5:00pm

We’d like to extend a big thank you to all the 10th grade students and school districts who participated in our recent 1...
12/13/2024

We’d like to extend a big thank you to all the 10th grade students and school districts who participated in our recent 10th Grade visits at Van Buren Tech! We’re thrilled to have had the opportunity to welcome so many students and show them what a day in the life of a Tech student is like.

During these visits, students were able to explore a variety of programs, choosing three areas of interest to visit after learning about each one through counselor presentations at their local schools. This hands-on experience is designed to help students discover what they’re passionate about and guide them in selecting the right career path.

Students also had the chance to learn about our Middle College program, which offers a unique opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school- an excellent way to get a jumpstart on future education and goals.

Juniors, It’s Not Too Late!
If you’re a junior from a local school district, you can still enroll for your senior year at Van Buren Tech. It’s a great way to gain hands-on training and prepare for success after high school.

We encourage all 10th and 11th grade students to visit Van Buren Tech's open house on Monday, December 16 to learn how we can support your future goals and help you get on the path to success.

We would like to invite local 10th & 11th graders and their immediate family to join us for the 10th/11th Grade Open Hou...
12/13/2024

We would like to invite local 10th & 11th graders and their immediate family to join us for the 10th/11th Grade Open House at Van Buren Tech on Monday, December 16 from 4:30pm-6:30pm!

Come explore our programs, meet staff, and learn more about opportunities for your future. Don’t miss our Middle College info session at 5:00pm to discover this exciting option as well.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Van Buren Tech
250 South St. Lawrence, MI 49064
Date: Monday, December 16
Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Middle College Info Session: 5:00pm

Meet Theo, a junior at Bangor High School and a Business, Management & Administration student at Van Buren Tech.  Descri...
12/04/2024

Meet Theo, a junior at Bangor High School and a Business, Management & Administration student at Van Buren Tech.

Describing himself as extroverted, he thrives in environments where communication and leadership are key, making him a natural fit for a business program.

Theo chose to attend VBT because of the wide range of opportunities and programs that aligned with his interests. He has found the Business, Management & Administration program to be both insightful and rewarding. The class has given him a deeper understanding of the business world, offering more in-depth content than a typical high school course. Theo chose this program because he wanted to focus more on the management side of business, gaining skills that will prepare him for leadership roles in the future.

In addition to his coursework, Theo is actively involved in DECA, a global organization for students in business and entrepreneurship. As the Secretary for DECA, Theo helps lead meetings, both in person and virtually, where he and his peers discuss ways to improve their business skills and prepare for future competitions.

Theo has big plans for the future. He hopes to attend college after high school and he believes the knowledge he’s gaining through his VBT program will help him transition smoothly into higher education. He’s also looking forward to the opportunity to pursue an associate’s degree through Middle College, which will allow him to further his education while still in high school. His goal is to eventually transfer to a university and continue his business studies.

One of the things Theo enjoys most about his time at VBT is the supportive and caring environment. "The staff are really friendly and treat you like you're not a stranger. They are super caring," he says. This welcoming atmosphere has made it easy for him to feel at home at Tech, and it’s clear that he values the relationships he’s built with both his peers and teachers.

If you’re considering the Business, Management & Administration program at VBT, Theo has some advice: "The class refines your skills and requires a sense of responsibility and communication." It’s a program that will challenge you to grow as a leader and it offers the tools you need to succeed in the business world.

Meet  Zack, a senior at Watervliet High School and a second-year student in Van Buren Tech's Graphic Design program. Zac...
11/27/2024

Meet Zack, a senior at Watervliet High School and a second-year student in Van Buren Tech's Graphic Design program.

Zack’s decision to pursue Graphic Design at VBT came after a tour of the program. “As soon as I walked into the classroom, I just felt comfortable,” he recalls. It was the welcoming, creative environment that drew him in and made him realize that this was the right path for him. Zack has always enjoyed drawing in his free time and he wanted to take his skills to the next level by learning more about the digital side of art. Graphic Design seemed like the perfect fit for him.

Zack speaks highly of his teacher, describing her as "very nice and extremely helpful," which has made his learning experience even better. One of his favorite projects so far was designing a logo for Career Camp during his first year at VBT. He enjoyed the opportunity to apply his creativity to a real-world task and learn how to create professional-level designs. Recently, Zack has been diving deeper into the world of 3D design. He’s been learning how to calibrate and fix 3D printers, which he finds both challenging and rewarding. Zack also enjoys helping classmates who may be confused or need assistance, as he feels a sense of fulfillment when he can share what he’s learned with others.

One of the things Zack loves most about his time at VBT is the sense of community. He feels like he’s met many people who share similar interests, which has made him feel comfortable and at ease in the classroom. The environment is collaborative and supportive, helping Zack thrive in both his individual work and group projects. The Graphic Design program at Tech blends hands-on learning with computerized tools, allowing students like Zack to explore both traditional and digital methods of design.

One of Zack’s recent projects was painting buckets for the Salvation Army. This was an especially meaningful project for him because it allowed him to expand his passion for artwork into a new medium—painting. It was an opportunity to use his design skills for a good cause, and Zack enjoyed the creative challenge of bringing the project to life.

As Zack continues his studies at VBT, he’s excited to keep developing his skills in Graphic Design. With his passion for art and his growing technical expertise, Zack is well on his way to a successful career in design.

Meet Cheyenne, a senior at Lawrence High School and an Allied Health Technologies student at Van Buren Tech. While atten...
11/22/2024

Meet Cheyenne, a senior at Lawrence High School and an Allied Health Technologies student at Van Buren Tech. While attending VBT, Cheyenne is also taking college classes through LMC, giving her a head start on her future and academic goals.

Cheyenne chose to pursue the Allied Health program at VBT because it offered exactly what she was looking for. She believes this program will provide her with more comprehensive knowledge of how the body’s systems work compared to other health-related programs. Cheyenne’s passion for understanding the inner workings of the human body fuels her desire to expand her knowledge. "I love learning about anatomy and gaining clinical skills," she says. She also enjoys the supportive community at VBT and the Main St. Cafe offered to all the staff and students.

Looking ahead, Cheyenne has ambitious plans for her future. She is determined to pursue a medical career in neuroscience and she plans to start by earning her biomedical degree at Western Michigan University (WMU). Her ultimate dream is to attend the University of Michigan to further her medical education and pursue a career in the medical field. With her drive and determination, it’s clear that Cheyenne is on track to reach her goals.

Cheyenne credits her experience in the Allied Health program with helping her refine her future career path. The hands-on learning, combined with the guidance and support from her teachers and classmates, has solidified her commitment to the medical field.

Cheyenne has a piece of advice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the medical field: "If you're interested in the medical field, this is the place to go because you get to learn how it works and how impactful it is. You gain a lot of opportunities to see what real life is like within the medical field."

School pride meets winter safety! The Van Buren County Road Commission’s Paint the Plow program is showcasing the talent...
11/15/2024

School pride meets winter safety!

The Van Buren County Road Commission’s Paint the Plow program is showcasing the talent of Van Buren Tech’s Print Design students. Savannah Mabus, Kendra Washington, and Alli Gordy's design features a schoolhouse and tree. This design represents nostalgic school spirit and showcases the many diverse programs VBT offers.

Cast your vote for your favorite plow at vbcrc.org/paintaplow and celebrate the creative pride of our schools while promoting safe winter driving!

Meet Dante Clemence, a senior at Gobles High School, currently in Van Buren Tech's NEW Sports Medicine program. Dante is...
11/08/2024

Meet Dante Clemence, a senior at Gobles High School, currently in Van Buren Tech's NEW Sports Medicine program. Dante is diving into a field that aligns perfectly with his interests and future goals. While sports have always been an important part of his life, his desire to help people led him to explore the medical field, starting with the EMT program last year. He is also looking into a career as a firefighter.

Dante’s decision to pursue Sports Medicine was influenced by his love of sports and his strong desire to assist others. His background as an athlete gives him a unique connection to the subject and his experiences in the medical field, particularly through the EMT program, have fueled his interest in helping people recover from injuries.

In addition to his interest in Sports Medicine, Dante appreciates the flexibility Van Buren Tech offers in its career and technical programs. He hopes to become a firefighter after graduation but he knows the skills and knowledge he’s gaining in Sports Medicine could also open other doors, including physical therapy and athletic training. This adaptability is something he values as it gives him the chance to explore different career paths while staying true to his passion for helping others.

Dante highlights the hands-on approach of the Sports Medicine program, where students engage in group activities and games to reinforce what they’re learning. "The class is very group-led," he notes, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and active participation. Dante notes that the social aspect of learning adds to the experience, making it both enjoyable and educational.

As Dante reflects on his time in the Sports Medicine program, he encourages other students to consider a career in health or emergency services. “Good luck and work hard!” he advises, offering a motivating message to those who will follow in his footsteps at Van Buren Tech.

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250 South Street
Lawrence, MI
49064

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Students enrolled at Van Buren Tech receive quality instruction in a professional environment. Curriculum meets both the Michigan Department of Education’s benchmarks and industry standards. Many Van Buren Tech students have the opportunity to start a career at a “living wage” right after high school. More than half of Van Buren Tech’s programs offer direct college credit and/or state or national certifications, challenging even the most advanced students. Van Buren Tech classes connect students to real world careers. - Learn skills using the latest software and industrial equipment. - Earn college credit or state/national certification(s) to get a head-start in college or your future career. - Join professionals in your chosen career field as you participate in internships, field trips, co-op positions, student competitions, and more. High school students will want to take advantage of this great opportunity! Turn the page to review program options and learn more about Van Buren Tech. For more information and/or to register for classes, contact your high school guidance counselor.