When Austin High School on the west side of Chicago closed its doors, it could have easily sat vacant.  Instead, labor unions, businesses, and the local government came together to build Austin Polytechnical Academy, a new kind of educational facility which focuses on high-tech manufacturing.  Meeting the needs of the community and the future of the labor market, Austin Polytech became a much needed success story in a neighborhood where opportunity is hard to come by.  Recently featured on Upworthy, Austin Polytech and its incredible students are a testament to the rewards that come from hard work, perseverance, and an understanding of the value of training.