Whitko Seniors Work At Micropulse During Work-Based Learning Program

Trey Larson, Braydon Coburn and Mayson Brubaker are seniors at Whitko Career Academy participating in the Work-Based Learning program at Micropulse.
Through their time in the program, each student has gained hands-on experience in a professional manufacturing environment while applying skills learned in their career pathways. Their experiences have helped them strengthen technical abilities, build workplace professionalism and develop the confidence needed for success beyond high school, according to a news release from Whitko Community Schools.
Larson completed the medical science pathway while working as a finisher at Micropulse, where he is responsible for refining and polishing surgical instruments to meet precise quality standards. His medical science coursework supported his understanding of this work by building a foundation in anatomy, medical terminology and the importance of accuracy and safety in healthcare-related environments. Through both classroom learning and on-the-job experience, Larson has developed strong attention to detail, patience and consistency, along with a deeper understanding of quality and accountability in a field where precision is critical. He has also strengthened his communication, teamwork, and professionalism in a corporate environment, stated the release.
After graduation, Larson plans to enter the union workforce to gain hands-on experience, learn a skilled trade and build a long-term career. He also intends to continue racing motocross, with the goal of qualifying for Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National Motocross Championship.
Coburn completed the construction pathway while gaining hands-on experience at Micropulse as a finisher, performing tasks such as deburring and sandblasting. His construction coursework helped prepare him for this role by reinforcing foundational skills such as measurement, tool safety, material handling and the importance of precision in hands-on technical work. Through this combination of classroom learning and real-world application, he developed an understanding of consistency, dependability and workmanship in a manufacturing environment.
Coburn values punctuality, recognizing that arriving on time reflects readiness, professionalism and respect for the opportunity to work, while also demonstrating a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility, stated the release. He also shared that supportive and encouraging coworkers helped him build confidence and stay focused. In addition to technical skills, he strengthened his communication and social skills through daily teamwork and interaction, helping prepare him for future employment. After graduation, Coburn plans to continue working at Micropulse.
Brubaker works in the case and tray area at Micropulse, where he performs tasks including tumbling, nylon finishing, detabbing, depaneling and ice blasting parts. His Work-Based Learning experience, along with his construction coursework, has helped him build a strong foundation in workplace safety, tool awareness and the importance of accuracy and quality in hands-on environments. These skills have translated directly into his daily responsibilities in manufacturing.
Brubaker has also grown in workplace communication, learning when to ask for assistance and how to become more self-sufficient. He values a positive work environment and enjoys working alongside supportive coworkers who contribute to his success. After graduation, Mayson plans to continue working at Micropulse and further develop his career within the company, stated the release.
Internships such as these are an essential part of the Whitko Career Academy experience, serving as a culmination of the skills and knowledge students develop throughout their years of study. They provide students the opportunity to apply classroom learning in real-world settings, strengthen professional skills and gain a clearer understanding of their future career paths.