Employers to inspire the next generation of manufacturers

Aug 23

Employer registration for Discover Manufacturing Week is now open through August 30. Facilitated by West Michigan Works! and scheduled from October 28 through November 8, Discover Manufacturing Week allows the region's employers to open their doors to local students, offering facility tours and hosting open houses. This initiative aims to inspire students to consider careers in manufacturing by giving them a firsthand look at the modern advanced manufacturing industry.

Teachers can register their classes from September 3 through October 4, choosing their preferred company based on location, date, time, and event description.

Last year, Discover Manufacturing Week saw significant growth, with 15,169 students touring 98 manufacturing facilities—a 44 percent increase from 2022.

"We are hearing positive feedback from educators, and with increased demand from schools, we are projected to grow another 10 percent," said Jerry Hill, Discover Manufacturing Industry Council Lead, West Michigan Works!. "We need more manufacturers to answer the call to inspire the next generation of manufacturers to pursue a career in our industry."

In 2023, 97 percent of participating manufacturers reported value in hosting events, with many praising the students' preparedness and engagement. "The majority of students were well-prepared and engaged. Teachers and students came with questions and participated in our activities," said Jeff Cobb, Advanced Engineering & Estimating at Enterprise Tool and Die.

Educators also expressed satisfaction with the experience. "Enterprise Tool and Die did an incredible job with our students. The various stations and continual movement kept them engaged. At each station, students participated in hands-on activities and saw real people at work. We even had a few students say they want to work there in the future and asked about next steps," said Emily Herro, Guidance Counselor at Grandville Middle School.

Michigan's manufacturing sector continues to drive the state's economy, producing $124.1 billion in economic output in 2023. Employing nearly 586,900 individuals, the sector represents 14.2 percent of the state's total jobs, with key occupations projected to grow by more than six percent by 2030. With nearly 51,200 average annual openings expected, the demand for skilled talent remains high, and Discover Manufacturing Week plays a critical role in addressing this need.

Manufacturers interested in participating can register now through August 30. For more information and to register, please visit https://www.discover-manufacturing.com/discover-manufacturing-week.