listen to this articleA group of Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) engineering students and New Brunswick Pathway alumni presented their project with Jingoli.
As part of the curriculum, students worked with a construction and engineering firm to develop, design, and build an “off-grid” recycling store using standard shipping containers. Jingori is one of the school's industry partners.
Students were tasked with identifying a community problem that could be solved by turning empty shipping containers into useful spaces. They recognized the need for an affordable thrift store. Students noted that thrifting for appropriate, affordable clothing is a staple in the community, but the popularity of vintage shopping has driven up prices.
Working with Jingoli and its partners, New Brunswick Development Corporation and IJB Electric, the students developed the store design and plans. Then, over the summer and into this academic year, P-TECH graduates worked as interns at his Jingoli and hers DEVCO, implementing student designs and learning real-world construction planning skills in the process.
Some features of Container Store:
- Self-contained business with clothing rack inside an 8' x 8' x 20' shipping container.
- Six solar panels charge two lithium phosphate batteries to provide HVAC and household power.
- P-TECH students run pop-up thrift shops using containers for the community.
- Eventually, the container will be used by the New Brunswick Adult Learning Center.
“We are pleased to partner with P-TECH and New Brunswick Public Schools to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities and experiences,” said Joseph Jingoli Jr., CEO of Jingoli. “I am so inspired by the current and former students here today and the work they are doing on this project, which is the future of New Brunswick. STEAM, an introduction to careers in construction, is proving to help develop the skills for a real and meaningful career.”
“We are so proud of the work our students have done and continue to do,” said New Brunswick P-TECH Principal Megan Adams. “This project allowed the students to more fully understand their capabilities. From conceptualization to development and production, Jingori provided the students with valuable experience and perspective. .”
Shaping “pioneers of the future”
The partnership with New Brunswick P-TECH schools is one of many initiatives in Jingoli's Competitive Edge program. This initiative aims to introduce individuals to careers. Additionally, we aim to identify, train, and find meaningful employment for high school students and adults living in the cities and towns where Jingori operates. So far, opportunities are being offered in Newark, Atlantic City, Camden, and New Brunswick.
“Our continued partnership with Jingoli and other industry partners means tremendous educational opportunities for our participating students,” said New Brunswick Public Schools Superintendent Aubrey Johnson. “This thrift store embodies what students will get from her P-TECH partnership.”
New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill said the results of the project are remarkable.
“Our ambitious innovators have not only adopted the principles of sustainability, they have clearly woven it into the very nature of their designs,” said Cahill. “As we celebrate the triumph of this engineering feat, let us also recognize the impact this effort will have in shaping our city’s future pioneers. With Jingori’s invaluable support, these people are more than just students. Beyond that, we are architects of change and building the foundations for a sustainable, inclusive and prosperous future for all.”
