Hands-on Programs Help Manufacturing-Inclined Students Connect the Dots

The manufacturing industry is changing fast, making it harder to find skilled workers. To tackle this challenge, manufacturers across the country are partnering with schools and industry organizations to engage young people early and explore new talent pools. By sparking interest in manufacturing careers and offering hands-on experiences, these efforts help connect education with industry needs and build a strong future workforce.

Organizations nationwide are developing programs that allow people of all backgrounds – young and old, urban and rural, heteronormative and neurodiverse – to discover the exciting world of manufacturing. These programs highlight the wide variety of careers available and cater to different learning stages and abilities, making manufacturing an appealing career choice for both current and future generations.

When students get real-life experience in modern manufacturing, they gain a better understanding of how technology and creativity drive the industry, breaking down old stereotypes and revealing the exciting opportunities in today’s manufacturing sector.

Early Exposure with the What’s So Cool About Manufacturing Program

One program making a difference is Pennsylvania’s What’s So Cool About Manufacturing. Its goal is straightforward: to raise awareness of manufacturing in local communities through a middle-school video contest that highlights what makes local manufacturers “cool.” Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC, part of Pennsylvania MEP) started this program over 10 years ago.

For five months, 7th and 8th graders team up with local manufacturers to create two-minute videos showcasing why their manufacturer is cool. With help from a digital media expert, students learn storytelling and video production skills, resulting in engaging and creative videos.

Once the videos are complete, the whole community can vote for their favorites online. The program wraps up with a fun awards event that brings everyone together to celebrate manufacturing.

As these videos are shared, students, parents, teachers and community members get a look at the innovative work happening locally, helping to change old ideas about manufacturing from the “four D’s” of dark, dirty, dead-end, and dangerous to the “four C’s” of cool, cutting-edge, creative and commendable.

Students might join the contest out of curiosity or to show off their video-making skills, but they leave with a better understanding of the manufacturing industry and the career opportunities it offers. Plus, they help educate their peers, families and teachers along the way. MRC supports the organizations and students throughout the process and is actively working to bring this program to other communities.

Going Deeper with MAGNET’s Early College, Early Career program

Another great program for engaging young people is the Early College, Early Career (ECEC) program, launched by MAGNET: The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (part of Ohio MEP). This program aims to create a direct path to jobs in the manufacturing industry for high school students in underserved communities in and around Cleveland.

Inspired by the successful apprenticeship programs in Germany, ECEC provides students with certifications and hands-on work experience, preparing them for in-demand careers in manufacturing. It helps kickstart careers and strengthen communities by offering opportunities to students who might not consider going to college.

The program’s success relies on a few important factors: personalized mentorship, family involvement, school collaborations and strong partnerships with local employers. Students start their junior year with training in soft skills, then participate in job shadowing and internships at local manufacturing companies.

MAGNET’s team of mentors and coaches work closely with students and employers to ensure a smooth transition from school to work, helping solve any challenges that come up. By the time students graduate, they not only have technical skills but also a solid understanding of the soft skills needed for long-term success in manufacturing.

Tapping New Populations with the Uniquely Abled Project

Imagine having access to a largely untapped workforce that has the skills your business needs. This group, often overlooked, includes individuals with unique abilities who excel in areas like attention to detail, focus and patience — qualities that are a great fit for the manufacturing industry.

Take Nick, for example. He works at Jergens, Inc. and has autism spectrum disorder. Over his four-plus years with the company, he has become a valued team member. His colleagues admire his dedication and growth. Team leaders actively seek to have Nick on their teams. He has progressed from not being able to make eye contact to speaking in public and taking on important responsibilities. Nick’s story shows the potential of workers with unique abilities, who bring both talent and commitment.

Companies like Jergens have recognized the significant benefits of hiring individuals from the uniquely abled community. Initially, there were concerns about productivity and fitting into the workplace, but these employees have proven to be valuable assets, positively impacting company culture and operations. By embracing this approach and partnering with organizations like the Uniquely Abled Project, which offers specialized training in CNC machining, manufacturers can help close the talent gap and create a more inclusive workforce.

Celebrating Manufacturing Month in October – and Beyond

Across the U.S., many initiatives and programs are changing how people view the manufacturing industry. By reaching out to young people early, providing hands-on experiences, and linking education with industry, these programs highlight the exciting opportunities in manufacturing and challenge outdated stereotypes.

These efforts show that the future of manufacturing is not just about innovation and technology; it’s also about inclusivity, creativity, and a shared commitment to developing a skilled workforce. Together, we can inspire the next generation to see themselves in manufacturing and embrace the possibilities ahead.

During Manufacturing Month, think about how you can engage your community and enhance your recruitment efforts.