Industrial Tech
The primary goal of the Industrial Technology department is to develop vocational skills that will help students to be successful after high school. Courses are project-based and shops are industry-based, meaning students learn to read and draft real plans and utilize the same machinery industry companies use. The department stresses safety, proper procedure, and quality work. The Industrial Technology department is excited about so many of their students getting opportunities in work-based learning programs, many of which offer scholarships. As of 2024, EPCHS has also won the Mid-Illini automotive contest 3 years in a row.
Industrial Tech Staff
Jim Hagedorn is the lead teacher of the Industrial Technology Department and has been a teacher at EPCHS for 31 years (spending one prior year at East Peoria District 86). He primarily teaches Wood Technology, Survey of Industrial Technology, Metals/Manufacturing, and Construction. Originally from Davenport, Iowa, he graduated from East Peoria Community High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree and be a 4 year Football letterman at Western Illinois University and later earned a Master’s degree in Education from Olivet Nazarene University. Mr. Hagedorn coached football and wrestling at EPCHS for 15 years. He was also an instrumental part of gaining $370,000 in grant money for projects for students as well as the tech labs at both EPCHS and in District 86. He shares, “The thing I love about East Peoria High School is all of the opportunities we have here for all of our students. Coupled that with an awesome, caring teaching staff and you get a great school that does it's best to prepare students for future success.” Outside of work, he most enjoys spending time with his family. He also likes to travel, bike, workout, hunt, fish, camp, follow sports, and catch a dirt late model/modified race once in a while.
Michael Baxter is a part of the Industrial Technology department and has been at EPCHS for four years. He is the primary teacher of all the courses in our Automotive program and is the advisor of the Automotive club. He is an Illinois native and earned his Associate’s degree in Applied Science from ICC before earning his certification in Career Technical Education. Mr. Baxter has helped his students win the Mid-Illini Automotive Competition for consecutive years and was also awarded with the Illinois State Board of Education’s Award of Outstanding Meritorious Service as an Early Career Educator. He is passionate about helping students further their careers in the automotive industry, and the students of EPCHS keep him showing up with passion each day.