The first Friday in October is Manufacturing Day across the country.
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted Manufacturing Day, but many Indiana manufacturers still are reaching out to guests to learn about manufacturing through multiple formats.
Among the virtual events happening in Indiana is one sponsored by The Labs for Industry Futures and Transformation (LIFT) Network for the Elkhart area.
Leadership across Elkhart, Marshall, and St. Joseph County are partnering with nine regional manufacturing firms to provide insights to career pathways, opportunities and more within the region’s manufacturing sector. Among the employers participating are Elkhart Plastics, General Stamping & Metalworks, Lippert Components, MORryde, and Robert Weed Corp.
Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb issued a proclamation declaring Oct. 2 to be Manufacturing Day in Indiana. According to the proclamation: “Manufacturers are inventing and employing the technologies of the future to make our lives better and strengthen our economy. Manufacturers are looking to hire talented individuals of diverse backgrounds to bolster this innovation and fill thousands of open jobs in Indiana. And government, industry and communities are united to encourage more young people to explore the possibilities of modern manufacturing and learn about the opportunities in the industry.”
Manufacturing is the largest segment of Indiana’s economy and the largest industry sector for employment.
“On Manufacturing Day 2020, it is particularly important to celebrate the work done by so many companies and workers during the pandemic, as well as the economic challenges of the past seven months,” Indiana Manufacturers Association President and CEO Brian Burton stated. “Manufacturers stayed open, producing protective equipment, medicines and essential daily supplies – all while operating safely. The continued strength of Indiana manufacturing depends on engaging the next generation of workers, and Manufacturing Day is a great way to showcase our industry.”
Manufacturing Day was designed to expand knowledge about and improve general public perception of manufacturing careers and manufacturing’s value to the economy. Manufacturing Day is for students, parents, educators, media, customers, suppliers and the community at large.
