(Springfield, Mo., May 5, 2026) — Imagine Technical Institute (ITI) is accepting applications for its inaugural four-week Inclusive Manufacturing Summer Camp, kicking off July 13 at Red Monkey Foods in Springfield.

Funded by a grant from SparkForce, the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association, this hands-on camp is designed for high school students with intellectual or developmental disabilities interested in exploring careers in manufacturing. Participants must be at least 16 years old.

The instructor-led program offers participants the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, learn foundational job skills, tour local manufacturing facilities, and complete a capstone project that highlights what they’ve learned. The camp is free to attend and limited to just five students, ensuring a highly personalized experience.

Interested students can apply online at: https://form.jotform.com/bciwebadmin/iti-sparkforce-camp-2026.

“This camp gives students the chance to explore their interests, build confidence, and gain real-world exposure to the manufacturing industry in a supportive environment,” said Josh Clair, ITI’s Director of Competitive Employment. “Experiences like this can play an important role in helping young people discover potential career paths and take meaningful next steps toward their future.”

The Inclusive Manufacturing Summer Camp reflects ITI’s commitment to expanding opportunities and creating pathways to employment for individuals of all abilities. For more information on ITI’s programs and services, visit https://imaginejobs.org/ or call 417-240-7630.

ABOUT IMAGINE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

Founded in 2023, Imagine Technical Institute (ITI) is a vocational training and employment services provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in southwest Missouri. Working in collaboration with Boone Center, Inc. in St. Peters, Mo., ITI empowers people with disabilities to find and retain jobs in our local community, working alongside non-disabled individuals while earning the same opportunities, benefits, and pay. ITI is the dream of Hollister native Tim Connell. His passion for creating a school for people with disabilities developed as he volunteered for disability-related organizations following his son’s Autism diagnosis in 1995. ITI partners with local businesses to co-create training programs. For more information, contact ITI’s Director of Competitive Employment, Josh Clair, at (417) 240-7630 or josh@imaginejobs.org.