Igniting the Future on National Manufacturing Day: Crafting Success in the World of Production
Every year, on the first Friday in October, manufacturing enthusiasts, industry leaders, educators, and students come together to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. This day is about recognizing the importance of manufacturing in our daily lives and inspiring the youth to consider careers in this dynamic and thriving sector.
Understanding National Manufacturing Day
National Manufacturing Day was introduced in 2012 to address the misconceptions surrounding the manufacturing industry. It provides an opportunity for manufacturers to open their doors to the public, offer facility tours, and engage in discussions about the exciting possibilities and innovations within the manufacturing field.
The day serves as a platform to bridge the gap between the industry and the younger generation. It’s an occasion to showcase the diverse and rewarding careers that Manufacturing offers, debunking the outdated stereotypes that Manufacturing is dull, repetitive, and low-paying work.
The Disconnect
There is a disconnect between our kids and what careers they choose. 70% of Americans view manufacturing as the most important industry for a strong economy and national defense. While 58% of parents want their child to be knowledgeable about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects, 43% agree that STEM-focused careers have a promising future. Only 20% of parents associate STEM education with the manufacturing industry, according to the Kronos 2018 Manufacturing Day Survey.
Making The Connection
Manufacturing has shown to be a promising career path for those who have joined the industry, but let’s dive deeper into the manufacturing industry and its potential.
High Earning Potential: Manufacturing careers offer competitive wages, and many positions do not require a traditional four-year college degree. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, the average manufacturing worker in the United States earned $87,185 annually, including pay and benefits (including health benefits) in 2020. This figure surpasses the average earnings in other industries, making manufacturing a financially rewarding career choice. In fact, over the last decade, new hires in Manufacturing earned an average of 38 percent more than new hires in non-manufacturing industries. And over a career, a manufacturing worker earns 17 percent more in wages and benefits than their counterpart in other sectors, according to U.S. Commerce Department data.
Abundant Job Opportunities: The manufacturing sector is pivotal in the global economy. In the U.S. alone, Manufacturing supports approximately 12.3 million jobs. Furthermore, the industry consistently seeks skilled workers to fill positions ranging from technicians and engineers to designers and managers. As experienced professionals retire, a significant number of job openings are projected in the coming years, creating a demand for a new generation of talent. According to a study published by the National Association of Manufacturers, 4 million manufacturing jobs will likely be needed over the next decade, and 2.1 million are expected to go unfilled if we do not inspire more people to pursue modern manufacturing careers.
This is only the tip of the opportunity iceberg. According to a 2021 National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) study, Manufacturing has the highest multiplier effect of any sector. For every one worker in Manufacturing, 4.4 workers are added to the overall U.S. economy. Working for InSource would be an example of this multiplier effect. We don’t manufacture a product; we are manufacturing adjacent as we help manufacturers be more productive and profitable.
Technological Advancements: Manufacturing is not the same as it was decades ago. Rapid technological advancements have transformed the industry, making it more high-tech and innovative than ever before. Automation, robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence have revolutionized Manufacturing, creating exciting opportunities for young tech-savvy individuals to make their mark.
Job Satisfaction: A survey conducted by Deloitte found that 86% of Americans view manufacturing as vital to the country’s economic prosperity. Furthermore, 89% of manufacturing workers reported being satisfied with their jobs. These statistics reflect the sense of purpose and fulfillment of contributing to producing goods that shape our world.
Career Advancement: Manufacturing offers a wide range of career paths. From entry-level positions, individuals can climb the career ladder by gaining experience and acquiring additional skills. The industry values continuous learning, making it possible to pursue further education or certifications to enhance one’s career prospects.
National Manufacturing Day is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder of the boundless potential within the manufacturing sector. At InSource Solutions, we are passionate about Manufacturing and seek to reinvent the industry through education, outreach, & assistance. So, consider Manufacturing if you’re a student or a young professional seeking a dynamic, well-compensated, and meaningful career. It’s not just about producing goods; it’s about shaping the future and building a better tomorrow for us all. Embrace the opportunities and let National Manufacturing Day be the spark that ignites your passion for manufacturing excellence.