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Influencing the future workforce
The future generation of engineers, doctors, leaders and decision-makers are sitting in your classroom. Their career goals all look a little different, and some may still be struggling to figure out how to match their skills and interest to a meaningful profession. While these students are exploring the possibilities, you have the power to introduce them to careers they may never have considered.
Career opportunities in manufacturing
The manufacturing industry offers ever-evolving, dynamic career opportunities in the STEM fields. These opportunities are available for students wanting to earn a college degree as well as those who are ready to enter the workforce right after graduation. With opportunities for advancement, on-site job training, tuition reimbursement and competitive salaries and benefits, a career in manufacturing should be on every high school student’s list to consider.
Unfortunately, manufacturers are struggling to find the workforce they need to keep up with the demands of the industry. A big reason for this is a perpetuating myth that manufacturing facilities are full of general laborers who work in unsafe conditions in dead-end jobs. This could not be farther from the truth.
More than just a job
More than just a job, a career in manufacturing can easily begin with an entry-level position. In an effort to attract and retain the best employees, manufacturers are well-known for providing on-site job training and opportunities for every employee to learn new skills and become eligible for advanced positions.
Training and skill development are increasingly important as the manufacturing industry is constantly adopting new technologies that will help them operate more productively while increasing quality and safety. Workers who are interested in learning about and using the latest gadgets are uniquely positioned to work with robotics, 3D printing, advanced material development, digital design integration and more.
Factor in the higher-than-average salary and benefits offered in most manufacturing facilities, and students can chase their dreams without accumulating crippling student loan debt.
Career Pathways
There are several pathways a student can take to earn a rewarding career in the manufacturing industry.
Career centers
Ohio offers many career technical training options for students interested in careers in the manufacturing industry. High school students can take advantage of Career Technical Education (CTE). These classes offer many different career paths for students who are interested in a more hands-on certificate.
Direct to work
Students interested in starting their careers right after high school can apply for entry-level positions in manufacturing. While these positions don’t require advanced skills or education, they do offer on-site job training that will allow them to learn new skills and advance their career.
Entry-level manufacturing positions also offer competitive salaries, and sometimes tuition reimbursement, that allows employees to earn a college education without going into debt. This is a great opportunity to earn a degree while accumulating work experience.
Apprenticeship programs
Manufacturing apprenticeships allow students to become a master at a skilled trade. Not only do they equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to learn the trade, but they are also paid positions that help them avoid debt while they earn a nationally recognized credential.
Entry-level manufacturing positions also offer competitive salaries, and sometimes tuition reimbursement, that allows employees to earn a college education without going into debt. This is a great opportunity to earn a degree while accumulating work experience.
Community colleges & Higher education
The manufacturing industry includes many highly skilled positions in fields like mechanical engineering, manufacturing and industrial technology just to name a few. These degrees can be earned at any of Ohio’s four-year universities or two-year community colleges. Students can receive degrees or certificates in a wide variety of programs that will prepare them for a successful career in manufacturing.
Learn More
Check out the links on our resources page for more information on the manufacturing industry and career opportunities. You can also contact us for specific information, or to connect you with additional resources for your students.
