Priming the Talent Pipeline: Manufacturing Day 2018

Annual Event Provides an Opportunity to Engage our Future Workforce

Glenn Richardson,
JobsOhio Managing Director

Manufacturing companies across the country are in the midst of a skills gap crisis and eager to recruit the next generation of workers. Manufacturing Day provides an opportunity for these companies to improve the public’s perception of manufacturing careers by debunking long-held beliefs that manufacturing job conditions and salaries are less than favorable. Since Manufacturing Day’s inception in 2012, the number of events hosted around the country has increased by a staggering 1000 percent.

This year’s Manufacturing Day will take place on Friday, October 5, and several cities, towns and companies across the state have signed up to host events. In fact, over 140 events are already planned, marking a 21 percent increase from last year alone.

From watching demonstrations on the latest in laser technology and robotics to touring manufacturing facilities and launching rockets, participants in the day’s events will not be disappointed. Manufacturing career opportunities are diverse, and participants will learn first-hand how vast the sector’s options are.

Manufacturing Day has an established record of improving public perception of the sector, as 89 percent of participants have recorded being more aware of manufacturing jobs after attending an event. Even more impressive, 90 percent of Manufacturing Day participants reported that they are more convinced the sector provides careers that are interesting and rewarding.

If we are to fill the 3.5 million manufacturing jobs that are anticipated to go unoccupied over the next decade, we must continue to engage our future pool of workers. We encourage all manufacturers to participate in Manufacturing Day to help educate the public on what modern manufacturing looks like and to expand the public’s understanding of its value to our economy.

It’s not too late to plan an event. Although Manufacturing Day is officially October 5, companies can host an event or tour any day in October. The Manufacturing Day website offers plenty of tips to plan and host an event. Join us as we inspire our next generation of manufacturers!

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