Exploring Technologies took an educational field trip to Hydro in Cressona, PA to learn more about the processes of aluminum extrusion. Hydro is responsible for alumina mining, which is the material mined to eventually be used in the creation of aluminum. They are also responsible for the recycling of aluminum and the creation of renewable energy.

Upon arriving at Hydro, the class was welcomed by staff members and showed a presentation of basic safety rules and regulations. It was also explained in the presentation the job opportunities and history behind Hydro. “I thought the trip was really interesting. I learned a lot about the industry that I didn’t know previously,” says Cameron Weiss, senior.

The staff took everybody in groups of six on an hour tour of the facility. Students had to equip themselves with safety equipment such as a hard hat, safety glasses, vests and ear plugs. During the tour there was a lot going on within the facility, from loud machinery moving overhead, to many vehicles hauling aluminum products to different on-site locations. The process of aluminum extrusion was explained with visual representation by all the machines.