Thousands of Students Set to Learn about Modern Manufacturing with Support of The Center

PLYMOUTH, Mich. - Oct. 4, 2019 - PRLog -- More than 700 students from across Western Wayne County will gain a first-hand look at modern manufacturing thanks to the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center), which is supporting multiple initiatives today in recognition of Manufacturing Day 2019.

Occurring on the first Friday in October, Manufacturing Day is an international celebration designed to show the public modern manufacturing in action and inspire the next generation of skilled workers.

Started in 2012, Manufacturing Day has seen participation grow dramatically over the years. For the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, it's an opportunity to join with other organizations and introduce innovative, dynamic manufacturers to school students.

"Our mission is based on serving our state's small and medium-sized manufacturers so they can succeed in an ever-changing business environment," said Mike Coast, The Center's President. "One of the major challenges facing manufacturing is developing the next generation of skilled trades that will be needed in this increasingly high tech profession. Manufacturing Day activities enable us to shine the spotlight on an industry that accounts for the largest sector of the Michigan economy, with 21 percent of the total output in the state and 14 percent of the workforce," Coast said.

Specific activities include:

·         In southeast Michigan, The Center's involvement includes working with the Livonia Chamber of Commerce and Schoolcraft College to enable 700+ students, teachers and chaperones from 10 schools to tour 10 manufacturers.

·         In Grand Rapids, The Center is supporting "Discover Manufacturing," a partnership event among Michigan Works!, community colleges, higher education institutions and economic developers that will attract nearly 9,000 students and more than 180 manufacturers.

·         In Northeast Michigan, approximately 15,000 students will attend Career Quest and visit companies hosting an open house.

·         Across a five-county region in the northern lower peninsula, The Center will partner with the Manufacturing Council for 1,500 students to tour manufacturing facilities.

·         Additionally, in the Upper Peninsula, three events will be held across the territory, targeting 850 freshmen students.

The Center is an organization dedicated to supporting Michigan manufacturers to work smarter, to compete and to prosper. The Center offers personalized services to meet the needs of clients in virtually every aspect of their businesses.

The Center is affiliated with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and is the official Michigan representative of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP National Network), a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive, proven solutions to U.S. manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. The Center also is closely affiliated with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) with the shared goal of making Michigan businesses vibrant, driving GDP growth, and creating new and lasting jobs. Visit https://the-center.org.