As part of their weeklong STEM JROTC Summer Camp at East Texas A&M University in Commerce, the cadets explored real world applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a modern industrial setting, gaining insights into career paths, leadership, and innovation beyond the classroom.
The cadets, aged 15–17, toured Hydro’s aluminum recycling facility, where they observed how STEM principles are applied in aluminum recycling, from the scrap yard and sampling furnace, to casting and finished goods quality.
The visit, organized through outreach efforts by Tiffany Lux, the Human Resources Manager at the Commerce Recycling plant, was designed to show students how their classroom learning connects to real world industries and to inspire them to consider careers in science, engineering, and manufacturing.
Inspiring the next generation of innovators, engineers and leaders
“At Hydro, we believe in investing in the future. We know that our long-term success as a company is closely linked with the wellbeing of our employees, their families and the local communities where we operate. By opening our doors to young minds and showing them how STEM powers our industry, we hope to inspire the next generation of innovators, engineers, and leaders. It’s about more than just careers, it’s about building strong citizens with strong values,” said Seth Augustine, Vice President of Recycling North America and a U.S. military veteran.
Following the tour, Seth spoke with the cadets about his own journey from military service to corporate leadership, emphasizing the importance of resilience, curiosity, and collaboration, values that align closely with Hydro’s own: Care, courage, and collaboration.
He also took time to answer questions from the cadets, offering guidance on how to navigate their next steps, whether in the military, higher education or the workforce.
Seeing what’s possible with good values and commitment to be better
“This experience is invaluable for our cadets. Only a small percentage may go on to military service or higher education, but all of them can benefit from seeing what’s possible when you work hard and stay focused. Hydro is showing them a path forward, one built on values, opportunity and innovation,” said Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Ernest Burton, Director of Army Instruction for Mesquite ISD, expressing his appreciation for the visit.
The visit was part of a broader initiative supported by a Department of Defense grant aimed at expanding STEM opportunities within JROTC programs. By engaging directly with industry leaders like Hydro, cadets gain real world insights into how STEM skills translate into meaningful careers.
Hydro’s Commerce plant has a strong track record of supporting STEM education, including a recent $20,000 investment in a new science lab at Commerce Elementary School and ongoing support for engineering capstone projects at East Texas A&M University.
The U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) is one of the largest character development and citizenship programs for youth in the world. The National Defense Act of 1916 established organized JROTC programs at public and private educational institutions. In 1964, Congress expanded the program to all military services and changed from active duty to shared support from the services and schools. As congressionally mandated by Title 10 United States Code, Section 2031, each military service must have a JROTC program to “instill in students in United States secondary educational institutions the values of citizenship, service to the United States, and personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment.” JROTC’s mission, “To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens,” is the guidepost for the program’s success.
Hydro’s aluminum recycling plant in Commerce, Texas began operation in 2002. Today, the plant delivers high-quality, recycled low-carbon aluminum products to key American industries such as automotive, transportation, and building and construction. The plant includes a single casting line and two homogenization lines, with an annual production capacity exceeding 100,000 tonnes. In May 2022, Hydro Commerce was the company’s first plant in the U.S. certified to produce Hydro CIRCAL, a low-carbon recycled aluminum product containing at least 75 percent post-consumer, end of life scrap.
Published: June 13, 2025
