Oct. 6 is Manufacturing Day, an annual celebration of modern manufacturing aimed at increasing the public’s understanding of the industry in 
the U.S. and inspiring the next generation of workers.
Companies, organizations, schools and libraries are holding events all over the country, including factory tours and open houses, as well as presentations from local manufacturing leaders.
In Illinois, more than 80 events are planned, with at least 11 in the Chicago area. Let’s take a look at a few geared toward the next generation.
What is Manufacturing Day?
The celebration was founded in 2012 by the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association, International, and today it’s produced by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).
Organizers say the number of events around the country has grown 1,000 percent, from 240 in 2012 to 2,807 in 2016.
Inspiring Students
Across the U.S., an estimated 267,607 students were involved in Manufacturing Day in 2016 alone. In a survey of student participants, 89 percent of respondents reported being more aware of manufacturing jobs in their communities and 84 percent said they’re more convinced that the industry provides jobs that are interesting and rewarding.
Those numbers are promising – and needed – in areas like Chicago, where manufacturing has been one of only two industries to report a decline in employment in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Chicago-area Events
Manufacturing Day events in the Chicago area are being held at high schools (Bloom Township and McHenry, i.e.,), community colleges (in Kankakee and Skokie) and some of the state’s largest manufacturers (Northrop Grumman).
Some events are invitation-only, but the majority of Chicago area events are open to the public. Hosts are taking advantage of the opportunity to show off their facilities, cutting-edge manufacturing technology and contributions to industry.
Communications Resources for Manufacturing
We’re committed to doing our part to keep the industry strong – and connected – with information and resources about vital wireless communications. You can visit manufacturing-related blog posts and online publications, including:
- A Renaissance in Education for Manufacturing Engineering Technology
- Innovations in Plant Communications
- Manufacturing Communications Guide
- Nation Pizza and Foods Case Study
- Leveraging Plant Communications
- Aux Sable Case Study
For our team to yours, Happy Manufacturing Day!
