On Friday, October 2nd, Middle and High School Guidance Counselors from throughout Region 7, Workone Employment Advisors, representatives from Ivy Tech as well as other regional dignitaries participated in Manufacturing Day 2015. Established in 2011, National Manufacturing Day is held annually on the first Friday in October. As noted on the Manufacturing Day website, "Manufacturing Day℠ is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers."
The day began at Bemis with a Manufacturing Day Proclamation by Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett. The Bemis staff welcomed guests with an overview of their company and then provided a tour of their facility where they produce plastic film.
The group then traveled to Novelis where they enjoyed lunch and a presentation by Novelis and a tour of their facility and how they manufacture aluminum for various industries. Conexus provided an overview of logistics in Indiana which includes waterways, roads, rail and air transportation.
The last stop of the day was at Taghleef. During the tour and presentation, the group learned about the different types of plastics that Taghleef manufactures.
At each manufacturer, in addition to learning about the manufacturers specific product, the Counselors learned some common themes in modern manufacturing:
Safety - Each presentation began with the importance of safety in manufacturing.
Recycling - All of the facilities highlighted how they reduce waste and cost through recycling.
Technical Skills - These manufacturers need workers with technical skills to monitor the various processes and make adjustments when needed.
Teamwork - Many manufacturers such as the ones visited utilize team concepts to operate their facilities. Successful teams depend on having members who are able to work together to solve problems.
Everyone learned a great deal about local manufacturing opportunities that they will be able to share with their students and clients.
Thank you to everyone who made Manufacturing Day 2015 a huge success!
News Coverage:
http://www.mywabashvalley.com/news/national-manufacturing-day-2015
http://wthitv.com/2015/10/02/we-struggle-to-find-the-talent-and-skills-we-need-manufacturers-highlight-the-importance-of-stem-education/
