Antelope Valley School District launches second composites lab at Lancaster High

In October, the Antelope Valley Union High School District (AVUHSD) unveiled its second composites lab at Lancaster High School (LnHS) in Lancaster, California. Located in the northern part of Los Angeles County, the Antelope Valley — widely known as “Aerospace Valley” — has long been a center of aerospace innovation, hosting major players like Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, Northrop Grumman, NASA, and numerous startups and smaller manufacturers. The new lab underscores AVUHSD’s commitment to fostering “home-grown” talent to meet the region’s growing demand for skilled aerospace workers, a cornerstone of its economic development strategy.

Following the success of AVUHSD’s first composites lab at William J. "Pete" Knight High School (KHS) in 2019, the district had always envisioned expanding access to students across multiple school sites. While the pandemic delayed this plan, the recent opening of the Lancaster High School lab marks a significant milestone. Developed in partnership with the local community college, workforce development organizations and industry leaders, the labs equip students with skills for direct entry into the workforce, seamless transitions to community college, or continued studies in engineering at the university level.

“We want to teach transferable skills. Composites fabrication has applications in many industries.”

AVUHSD has unveiled the Lancaster High School Advanced Manufacturing and Composites Lab, a state-of-the-art 2,600-square-foot facility completed in August 2024. Situated at Lancaster High School (LnHS), the new lab represents AVUHSD’s commitment to preparing students for advanced manufacturing and engineering careers, bolstering the district's reputation as a key player in nurturing local talent for Aerospace Valley’s dynamic workforce needs.

The lab complements LnHS’s Multimedia and Engineering Academy, known for its hands-on curriculum and award-winning robotics program. “This program is a convergence of industry-valued technologies and processes, combining computer-aided design, 3D printing, CNC machining and composites fabrication,” says engineering teacher Eryk Frias, who will lead the course. Frias brings firsthand industry experience, working in the construction, automotive, and aerospace sectors, including on projects like Scaled Composites’ Model 351 Stratolaunch. “I’m thrilled to share these opportunities with my students.”

Many graduates from AVUHSD continue their education at Antelope Valley College, which recently introduced an Advanced Manufacturing program offering a Bachelor of Science degree. This program reflects a broader shift in labor markets as advanced manufacturing technologies become integral across industries.

Recognizing these trends, AVUHSD’s new lab ensures students gain relevant skills. “We’re listening to our local community and industry partners,” says LnHS Principal Zach Mercier. “Having a state-of-the-art composites lab is a game changer, giving our students access to cutting-edge technology and preparing them for local and beyond success.”

AVUHSD has expanded its Career Technical Education (CTE) offerings by opening the Lancaster High School Advanced Manufacturing and Composites Lab. This initiative reflects AVUHSD’s dedication to preparing students for in-demand careers through robust industry partnerships and cutting-edge facilities at LnHS.

Frias has leveraged his extensive industry experience to establish an advanced manufacturing and composites program advisory board. Representatives from Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, Stratolaunch and Scaled Composites actively serve as advisors, ensuring the curriculum aligns with current industry standards. Aaron Maples, senior quality assurance technician at Stratolaunch and former composites trainer at The Spaceship Co., has played a critical role by reviewing material lists and processes to maintain the lab’s alignment with professional protocols.

While aerospace remains a dominant industry in the Antelope Valley, the lab’s focus extends beyond it. “We want to teach transferable skills,” Frias explains. “Composites fabrication has applications in many industries, from aerospace and automotive to entertainment and motorsports.” To support this versatility, the lab is divided into two sections: a cold/clean room for prepreg composite parts fabrication and a wet layup/manufacturing room, which features advanced equipment such as a waterjet cutter, three-axis CNC, a Venturi fume hood and a Grieve oven for part curing. The curriculum covers composites tooling, parts fabrication, resin systems, vacuum bagging, trimming and assembly, alongside CAD/CAM training.

Lancaster High School, home to 3,000 students, introduced the lab to its students this fall, marking a new chapter in AVUHSD’s mission to bridge education and industry. “This lab provides students with skills that prepare them for college and their careers," says Frias, emphasizing the lab's role in setting students on a trajectory for success in various technical fields.