Embry-Riddle students to make thousands of face shields for local hospitals

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Teams at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University are helping health care workers responding to the coronavirus pandemic by building thousands of masks and face shields.

Officials said 50 Embry-Riddle students will produce 5,000 face shields and distribute them between Halifax Health and AdventHealth hospitals.

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“Many of the students doing the work have lost their regular employment because of the global pandemic,” a spokesperson for Embry-Riddle said.

“This is an opportunity for them to earn some needed cash, as a number of students are struggling financially after the loss of jobs,” said Embry-Riddle’s student engagement and student union executive director Karin Gollin. “It’s also an opportunity for them to make a contribution to the local community, which is also a powerful motivator for them.”

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Students are fabricate the face shields using materials provided by Embry-Riddle, including Mylar, adhesive foam and elastic ribbon.

Officials said students are keeping their distance while working on the major project.

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