Every year, there’s Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, and even a World Migratory Bird Day (which is fast approaching!) But where’s the appreciation for the real heroes of society – our readers?
Since 2012, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) in partnership with the Founding Partner Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) has made sure manufacturers get their day, just like everyone else. On Manufacturing Day, annually coordinated on the first Friday in October, manufacturers across North America open their doors to build awareness and excitement for manufacturing careers and technology.
Why Does Manufacturing Day Exist?
According to NAM, the goal of Manufacturing Day is to overthrow the old ideas of factories as dark, dirty and dangerous places, like the factories of the industrial revolution. For progress to be made on the labor gap, the skills gap, and advancing automation technology, young North Americans must be informed and engaged by the factory of today.
The factory of today, NAM argues, is technologically advanced: 3D printing, robotics, and AR/VR are at work. The average annual salary of manufacturing workers is $77,000, and 90 percent of manufacturing workers have health benefits. These are the facts we need to communicate to the next generation of manufacturing workers and professionals.
Manufacturing Day Events
To browse the full list of registered events, visit the Manufacturing Day events page. Here are a few that caught my eye:
ABB Facility Tour
ABB manufactures everything from electrical transformers to industrial robots to Formula E electric race cars. On October 5th, 2018, their facility in Crystal Springs, Mississippi will be open for a guided tour and careers presentation.
For the parent of a future engineer in Mississippi, this is a can’t-miss event.
Novelis Facility Tour
On October 5th, 2018, Novelis is hosting a tour of its Berea, Kentucky facility. A leader in the aluminum industry, Novelis has planned presentations on the aluminum industry and recycling, as well as STEM careers and women in manufacturing.
21st Amendment Brewery Facility Tour
On October 5th, 2018 in San Leandro, California, 21st Amendment brews craft beer in a former Kellogg’s factory. This is a chance to see the full process of beer brewing, including the mill house, tanks, brew house and packaging line. Free samples a distinct possibility.
For more information about Manufacturing Day, visit the website.