Manufacturing Day, the first day of October, is the most important day of the year due to its role in promoting the manufacturing industry, addressing misconceptions, and inspiring the next generation of manufacturers for young people and their parents. Here are some reasons why Manufacturing Day holds significant importance:
- Raising awareness: Manufacturing Day helps raise awareness about the opportunities and benefits of a career in manufacturing. It showcases the diverse range of jobs available in the industry and highlights the critical role manufacturing plays in the economy.
- Addressing misconceptions: By opening their doors to the public, manufacturers can debunk common misconceptions about the industry. This helps create a more accurate and positive perception of manufacturing, which can attract more people to consider manufacturing careers.
What are common misconceptions about manufacturing?
Several common misconceptions about the manufacturing industry can contribute to a negative perception and discourage people from considering manufacturing careers. Some of these misconceptions include:
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- Manufacturing is dirty and dangerous: Many still envision manufacturing as a dirty, dark, and dangerous work environment. However, modern manufacturing facilities are often clean, well-lit, and highly automated, with advanced technology and safety measures to protect workers.
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- Manufacturing jobs are low-skilled: While it's true that some manufacturing jobs require basic skills, the industry increasingly demands a highly skilled workforce. Workers in modern manufacturing often use advanced technology, operate sophisticated machinery, and possess specialized skills in areas like engineering, robotics, and computer programming. (Keep in mind that the median annual wage for manufacturing workers may vary depending on factors such as the specific subsector, level of education, experience, and job role.)
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- Manufacturing jobs are low paying: This is another outdated notion. Many manufacturing jobs offer competitive wages, and specialized roles can command high salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for all manufacturing workers in Washington State is $46,550, which is $22.38 per hour. This is higher than the national median annual wage for manufacturing workers of $41,950.
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- Manufacturing is a declining industry: While manufacturing has faced challenges in recent years, the industry is still a vital part of the economy. Innovations in technology, such as automation, additive manufacturing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), are reshaping the industry, creating new opportunities, and driving growth.
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- Manufacturing jobs are all about manual labor: While manual labor is a component of some manufacturing jobs, the industry also encompasses a wide range of positions, including engineers, designers, programmers, and managers. The increasing integration of technology into manufacturing processes has led to the growth of high-tech and innovative roles in the sector. Manufacturing jobs are Technology jobs.
By debunking these misconceptions and promoting a more accurate picture of the manufacturing industry, events like Manufacturing Day can help inspire the next generation of manufacturers and foster interest in manufacturing careers.
- Bridging the skills gap: The manufacturing industry faces a skills gap due to an aging workforce, technological advancements, and the lack of qualified candidates for specialized roles. Manufacturing Day can help bridge this gap by inspiring young people to pursue manufacturing careers and educating them about the skills and education needed to succeed in the industry.
- Building connections: Manufacturing Day events facilitate connections between manufacturers, educators, students, and local communities. These connections can lead to partnerships, apprenticeships, and other collaborative efforts that strengthen the talent pipeline and support the industry's growth.
- Celebrating innovation: Manufacturing Day is an opportunity to showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovative processes that drive modern manufacturing. This celebration of innovation can inspire new ideas and further advancements in the industry. Students can see this firsthand in their own community.
There is plenty of time to plan ahead for Manufacturing Day 2023 as a manufacturer or educator to participate! Manufacturers can host an event, and educators can be sure they attend it.
Learn more about how to make the most of your MFG Day 2023 event!
