Student designed and created metal palm trees will be part of this year’s Ottumwa Symphony Ball backdrop. The trees were a collaborative effort between two SparkTank student associates and Ottumwa High School students in the Advanced Metals class.
Two years ago, advanced metals students were approached about building a carriage for the symphony. The symphony were thrilled with the results and when they saw another need, again reached out to the district for help. The project seemed a perfect fit for SparkTank, Ottumwa’s newest student initiative.
SparkTank is a project-based experience that connects teams of students with local businesses and organizations to solve real-world problems while becoming immersed in a professional culture. Student associates learn employability and technical skills while engaged in authentic learning experiences.
Student associates, Jonathon Bossou and Blaine Webster, teamed up to tackle the design aspect of the project. They met with symphony member, Ann Youngman and Chamber of Commerce director, Shea Greiner, twice. The initial meeting was to gather information about the project, including deadlines, design specifications, etc. The second was for design approval. “It was an ideal project for what we’re trying to do at SparkTank,” said Brandon Brooks, a SparkTank instructor.
“It’s been my favorite project so far,” said Bossou, an OHS senior who plans to major in business or engineering after graduation. He enjoyed the design process of working with a client and developing a solution that met the client’s needs.
The student associates then collaborated with Brett Graham’s Advanced Metals class to fabricate the concept. Computer files were handed off to OHS in mid-November. While every student was involved at some level, Matthew Polson, Zach Lisk, and Colby Reed completed the majority of the fabrication work. Two palm trees and branches were cut from 22 gauge steel. Students programmed a plasma cutter to cut the tree trunk sections as well as eight intricate tree leaves. It was complicated work. The tree trunks feature half circle cuts. Each branch took an entire class period to cut out.
After cutting, the trunk sections were welded together. The gauge of the metal required more precision welding. To create an old, rusty patina, students mixed a mixture of vinegar, salt, and hydrogen peroxide and sprayed it on the metal. The final step, a clear coat to preserve the finish. “It was a fun project,” said Polson. The experience taught him how to work within deadlines.
Bossou learned some valuable lessons through the project. “Be open to suggestions that spark different ideas,” he said.
“The project was a success,” said Jeff Kirby, SparkTank director. “It allowed our student associates to complete an authentic project beginning to end based on a client's needs, utilizing skills learned at SparkTank and OHS. The end result was a happy client.”
