WAKEFIELD — Superintendent David DiBarri is pleased to share that three Northeast Metro Tech sophomores fabricated an equipment rack for the Reading Fire Department, continuing a tradition of Northeast Metro Tech students giving back to member communities.

Sophomore Metal Fabrication students Shawn Post, of Woburn, Liam Cullen, of Melrose, and Evan Sumares, of Melrose, recently became the latest Northeast Metro Tech students to put their shop skills to work for a member community, when they fabricated a new equipment rack to hold the gear of the Reading Fire Department.

The students fabricated a tubular frame structure as the basis for the rack, and then installed custom features to suit firefighters' needs. 

Firefighters' protective gear and coats can weigh approximately 70 pounds, so the equipment rack was fabricated with custom-made, non-removable coat hangers that are built to support the weight of a firefighter's coat. The rack also includes sectioned areas for the storage of firefighter helmets and boots. The equipment rack, which was built on wheels so it can be moved around the firehouse, is meant to serve six firefighters. 

Once the rack was fabricated, the Northeast Metro Tech Autobody Shop contributed as well by applying a two-tone red and black paint job to the rack. 

“The firefighting gear that protects our firefighters is critical to keeping them safe," said Reading Fire Chief Richard Nelson. "Having a proper way to store the gear so it dries properly and does not get damaged is vitally important. This amazing rack will serve our department for many years!”

"Building the firemen's gear rack with my 10th-grade students was more than a fabrication project; it was a commitment to the heroes who run toward danger and help others in need," said Metal Fabrication Instructor William Williams. "This commitment taught the students just how valuable their skills that they have could be used to support the firemen who help others. The students had the opportunity to meet the Chief of the Reading Fire Department. He explained just how valuable the gear rack was to them. The rack would hold their firefighting outfits that cost thousands of dollars. This was a great project all around, giving back to the  town and showing the skills of our great students and the skills from Northeast Metro Tech Vocational School."

"I enjoyed making the fire gear rack because it was a project that has value and meaning," said Evan Sumares. "This project was fun to make and also has a positive impact on the fire department. Now the fire department has another rack to store their gear on, giving them more storage and a place for gear to dry out. I am glad that I was able to take part in making this project."

"The project was fun to make knowing that we made it for the firefighters who will be using it in their daily duty to help others," said Liam Cullen.

"Northeast Metro Tech students never cease to amaze me," said Superintendent David DiBarri. "Even as sophomores, these three young men were able to put their skills to work and create value for firefighters in one of our member communities. Northeast Metro Tech builds skills that enable our students to better their communities. Shawn, Liam and Evan still have years to go in their Northeast Metro Tech journey, but they're already giving back and making our school community proud."