FONTANA, CA – While Fontana High School’s newest career technical education (CTE) instructor, Lamar Hanger, guides students in developing carpentry skills in the classroom, his own expertise will be showcased across the U.S. on the television show “Tough As Nails” – airing Wednesday, Oct. 6 on CBS.

A 32-year member of the Southwest Regional Council of Carpenters (SWRCC), Hanger brings versatile experience in construction, welding, metal-stud framing, and lath to his new position at Fontana High School (FOHI). Following a successful teaching stint through the apprenticeship program at SWRCC, Hanger was inspired to bring the union’s existing education program, Career Connections, to Fontana Unified.

Career Connections is a CTE program that provides students with a practical STEM education, supported by a state- and District-approved curriculum that features projects and hands-on learning.

After completing the program, FOHI students are given entry to SWRCC’s debt-free apprenticeship programs, where young carpenters can increase their earning potential and receive a trade certificate from both the state of California and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.

“These kids are hungry for knowledge,” Hanger said. “I’m going to help them connect with people in the field and give them the skills to succeed in a career with great benefits. And the students are excited – I teach them Professional Construction Math and they say I make it fun! I’m excited to be part of the FOHI family and to share my experience through teaching.”

Hanger’s expertise as a carpenter was recognized when he was contacted by “Tough As Nails,” a competition series on CBS for working-class professionals across the United States. The competition includes individual and team challenges, in which Hanger participated for the grand prize of $200,000.

Hanger also provided the CBS crew with a tour of FOHI’s Construction Career Connections/Woodshop and equipment, showcasing the resources available to Fontana Unified students.

Unable to reveal if he was crowned “Tough As Nails” champion, Hanger urged viewers to watch the show and to support SWRCC programs. In the meantime, Hanger said he is excited to start inspiring FOHI’s diverse student body in their pursuit of academic and professional success.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

FUSD_HANGER_1: Fontana High School’s newest career technical education (CTE) instructor, Lamar Hanger, will be featured on the television show “Tough As Nails,” airing Wednesday, Oct. 6 on CBS.

FUSD_HANGER_2: Career technical education instructor (CTE) Lamar Hanger prepares to educate students in the Construction Career Connections/Woodshop at Fontana High.