Chambers County School District Welcomes New Precision Machining Instructor

Pictured above is Mr. Hunter Ward, the new Precision Machining Instructor at Inspire Academy

The Chambers County School District is pleased to share that the Board of Education approved Mr. Hunter Ward as the new Precision Machining Instructor at Inspire Academy. Mr. Ward’s position as a new hire was approved at the Board of Education meeting hosted on Wednesday, July 19th in LaFayette.

Career Technical Education Director, Dr. Tyler Nelson interviewed Mr. Ward and made his recommendation to Superintendent, Dr. Casey Chambley to fill the vacancy. Mr. Ward will succeed Mr. Daniel Smith who officially retired from his position in May after several years of serving the district.

Mr. Ward completed high school as a graduate of Port St. Joe H.S. in Port St. Joe, Florida. During his time at Port St. Joe H.S., Mr. Ward gained practical experience as a welder. Following high school, Mr. Ward pursued and earned his Associate’s Degree in CNC Machine Shop Technology from Southern Union State Community College in Opelika.

The CNC Machine Shop Technology focuses on computerized manufacturing processes in which pre-programmed software and code control the movement of production equipment. CNC Machining controls varied complex machinery such as grinders, lathes, and turning mills, all of which are used to cut, shape, and create different parts and prototypes. While enrolled at SUSCC, Mr. Ward successfully completed an apprenticeship as a machinist with Rexnord Industries in Auburn.

Upon earning his Associates Degree, Mr. Ward went to work for West Point Industries serving as a Machinist for a year. He eventually returned and was hired as a Machinist 2 by Rexnord Industries in Auburn.

He will officially be joining the staff at the district’s career technical education program located at Inspire Academy later this month. Mr. Ward has earned short certificates in CNC Milling, CNC Turning, CNC Machining, and Conventional Machining. Additionally, he has earned certifications as an NCCER or National Center for Construction Education and Research as a certified welder for both industry and career technical education programs. He is also NIMS certified (for the National Institute for Metalworking Skills) whereby he has earned endorsements as a machinist in advanced manufacturing.

Mr. Ward is excited to be joining the Chambers County School District as the system’s new precision machining instructor at Inspire Academy. He will join the rest of the district’s new teachers for orientation beginning on Tuesday, August 1st. Welcome to Chambers County Schools Mr. Hunter Ward! Dr. Chambley noted he was very pleased the district could find such a qualified candidate to succeed Mr. Daniel Smith’s retirement with competition so keen for teachers.