MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Orion Wernke

Graduating senior Orion Wernke walked across the stage on Saturday, May 2, 2026, to accept his high school diploma, already planning for a future that includes owning and operating his own construction company. He plans to eventually build that life in Hawaii, with enough flexibility to surf at the end of the workday.

Orion enrolled at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School in the fall of 2019, in the 6th grade. During his nearly seven years at the school, he ran cross country and participated in track and field. He says those sports helped him build self-discipline and determination. They also taught him valuable lessons about teamwork and commitment. 

“Being part of a team pushed me to work hard, stay committed, and support my teammates.”

On campus, Orion appreciated a couple of everyday things that made school feel better. He liked the salad bar during lunch. He also valued the free dual college credit program at MAS. (Dual credit classes allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, and Orion completed 18 college credits before high school graduation.)

Orion’s advice to incoming freshmen reflects the habits he found useful. 

“Be patient, follow the guidance of your teachers, and take initiative in their own learning. Doing your own research and exploring different ways to expand your knowledge can help you grow academically and personally.”

He also says taking initiative matters, and he learned to persevere through difficult situations.

Outside of school, Orion enjoys hiking and traveling, and he also likes swimming. He plays football and spends time cooking. He says these activities helped him step outside of his comfort zone and interact more with others, which strengthened confidence and social skills. Hiking and traveling also helped him develop planning skills, plus critical thinking that he says he now uses in everyday life.

In the fall, Orion will attend the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NM Tech) in Socorro, New Mexico, where he will major in construction management. Looking ten years ahead, Orion sees a life built around work he enjoys and people he cares about. 

“Ten years from now, I plan to be in a position where I can help build others up while staying motivated myself.” 

He would like to live in Hawaii, where he can surf. He also wants to run his own construction company. He wants to own several homes around the world. He also plans to have a family and a balanced, fulfilling life.

Orion says he admires his mom because she supports him while giving him the freedom to be his own person. He credits her encouragement and trust. He also told us that he appreciates his dad for his wisdom and for teaching the value of integrity.

When he dines out, Orion heads to Frank’s Famous Chicken & Waffles (400 Washington St SE). He loves the okra. He also orders the mac and cheese. Fried pickles round out the meal.

Orion leaves MAS with momentum and clear plans. Everyone at MAS looks forward to seeing him head to college as he works toward the life he envisions.