ACME Brick: Building Strong Foundations

ACME Brick Company has been a cornerstone in the brick manufacturing industry since 1891. Founded in Texas, ACME Brick has grown to operate multiple plants across several states, producing high-quality bricks known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Their products cater to residential, commercial, and industrial projects, making them a trusted choice for builders and architects nationwide.

During Manufacturing Day, students learned about the comprehensive brick-making process, from raw material selection to kiln firing and quality inspections. They also explored various career opportunities within the company, including roles in production, logistics, sales, and management. ACME Brick emphasizes career growth, allowing employees to start in entry-level positions and advance through hands-on experience and training programs.

Apex Stone: Crafting Natural Beauty

Apex Stone is a premier natural stone supplier and custom fabricator based in Sealy, Texas. Established in 2003, the company has grown from a small operation to a leading provider of natural stone products, serving clients nationwide. They specialize in transforming natural stone into beautiful, functional elements for both residential and commercial projects.

Students visiting Apex Stone during Manufacturing Day gained insights into the processes of quarrying, cutting, and finishing natural stone. They learned how raw stone is processed, cut, and polished for use in various applications such as countertops, walls, fireplaces, and custom designs. Apex Stone offers career opportunities in machinery operation, craftsmanship, sales, and logistics, with a focus on skill development and career advancement within the company.

Gulf Coast Toyota: Automotive Excellence

Gulf Coast Toyota is a prominent automotive dealership located in the Gulf Coast region, specializing in the sale of new and pre-owned Toyota vehicles. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including vehicle maintenance, genuine Toyota parts, and financing options, ensuring customers receive a seamless automotive experience.

During Manufacturing Day, students explored various career paths within the automotive industry, such as sales, service, parts management, and customer relations. Gulf Coast Toyota emphasizes professional development, providing training programs that enable employees to advance in their automotive careers.

International Paper: Sustainable Packaging Solutions

International Paper is a global leader in the paper and packaging industry, producing renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp, and paper products. Their Sealy facility focuses on manufacturing corrugated packaging solutions that are essential for transporting goods safely and sustainably.

Students visiting International Paper gained insights into the production processes of corrugated boxes and other packaging materials. The company offers career opportunities in manufacturing operations, engineering, environmental health and safety, and supply chain management, with a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Hendrix Industries: Innovators in Stone Surfaces

Hendrix Industries specializes in manufacturing quartz, granite, and natural stone surfaces. Their state-of-the-art facility in Sealy, Texas, has a production capacity of up to 12 million square feet per year, transforming Earth’s minerals into beautiful surfaces for homes and workplaces. They are the only quartz manufacturer in Texas.

This makes Hendrix Industries one of only five companies in the United States producing engineered quartz surfaces and countertops.

During their visit, students learned about the technological innovations and stylish designs that Hendrix Industries employs to create high-quality stone products. Career opportunities at Hendrix Industries include roles in production, design, quality assurance, and research and development, all within a company committed to technological advancement and community prosperity.

CZT Energy: Customized Power Solutions

CZT Energy is a leading provider of industrial power solutions, specializing in customized energy systems for commercial and industrial clients. Their services include backup power generation, energy efficiency solutions, and electrical infrastructure development, ensuring clients have reliable and efficient energy systems.

Students visiting CZT Energy learned about the growing demand for reliable energy solutions and the roles technicians, engineers, and project managers play in maintaining industrial operations. The company offers careers in electrical

Sika Corporation: Advancing Construction Materials

Sika Corporation is a global company specializing in specialty chemicals for construction and industrial applications. They produce products such as concrete admixtures, sealants, adhesives, and roofing systems, contributing to high-quality and durable construction projects.

During the visit, students discovered how Sika’s innovative products enhance the performance and durability of buildings and infrastructure. Career opportunities at Sika include roles in chemical engineering, technical services, research and development, and sales, offering pathways for growth in the construction chemicals industry.

Walmart Distribution Center: Logistics and Supply Chain Efficiency

The Walmart Distribution Center #7036 in Sealy, Texas, is a critical hub in Walmart’s supply chain, ensuring products are efficiently distributed to stores across the region. The center handles a vast array of products, from general merchandise to perishable goods, maintaining Walmart’s commitment to timely and reliable service.

Students touring the distribution center observed the complexities of modern logistics, including inventory management, transportation coordination, and technological systems that keep operations running smoothly. Career opportunities at the distribution center range from warehouse associates and forklift operators to logistics analysts and operations managers, with Walmart offering training programs to support employee development.