From left, Todd Lile, Madera Unified School District Superintendent; Dan Riley; Dr. Cecilia Massetti; Kevin Herman, Madera County Compact chairperson. Photo contributed

A Madera manufacturer is being recognized for its work with local schools.

Steel Structures, specializing in steel tank and storage container fabrication, received the Crystal Tower Award at the annual Business and Education Shareholders’ Luncheon hosted recently by the Madera County Compact.

The company was awarded for its support for the Madera Unified engineering and manufacturing pathway and the robotics team.

Steel Structures owner Dan Riley, who also owns Riley’s Brewing, often judges final projects and has provided feedback on selecting equipment and designing the new manufacturing facility at Matilda Torres High School.

The manufacturer has partnered with schools throughout the district for more than 10 years.

Steel Structures also hosts externships for teachers to job shadow at their facility to see firsthand what happens during day-to-day operations.

Riley provides insight on skills students need to obtain a job in the industry and helps them find project layouts that could be replicated in classrooms.

“Riley demonstrates what a true business and education partnership looks like,” said Dr. Cecilia Massetti, Madera County Superintendent of Schools.  “We are grateful for his dedication and for the example he has provided for our students and staff to have hands on learning experiences which helps to shape our local workforce.”

The Madera County Compact is composed of business, community and education leaders working together to support efforts to improve the quality of life in Madera County. It promotes business partnerships between schools to improve achievement levels and skills of students and prepare young people for college and their careers.