By: Katie Foley
Did you know manufacturers in the United States need to fill 4 million jobs by 2030? There are two problems holding the U.S. back from filling over half of those jobs: a skills gap and misperceptions about modern manufacturing. Let’s look at some of these common manufacturing myths that might be holding back students from pursuing a career in this field.
Myth: Manufacturing jobs are dirty.
Reality: Many modern-day manufacturers look more like clean room or laboratory-like settings.
Myth: Manufacturing jobs are low-tech.
Reality: Many of the low-skilled jobs are now being performed by robots thanks to new technologies such as automation and artificial intelligence.
Myth: Manufacturing jobs are low-paying.
Reality: A 2016 SME survey showed that the average U.S. manufacturing worker makes $77,506 annually.
Enter MFG Day. A day created by manufacturing industry organizations to promote modern manufacturing and to inspire the next generation of students to pursue a career in manufacturing. As an ERP provider who serves the manufacturing industry, we are invested in the future success of manufacturing, which is why we love to spread awareness about MFG Day.
This year MFG Day will be celebrated on Friday, October 1st. On this day, manufacturing companies, academic institutions, and public entities host events to show students and parents what exciting job opportunities are available thanks to new advanced manufacturing technologies - ‘from bioengineers, to data analysts to robotics technicians, and all of the operations in between.’ In addition to spreading awareness about manufacturing opportunities, MFG Day tries to prepare students for the skills they will need to fill these new roles.
The best way to celebrate MFG Day is to attend an event. There are thousands of events being held both in person and virtually across the United States. To find an event near you, click here.
Manufacturing is one of the most important industries in the world – something we have come to learn during the COVID-19 pandemic as global supply chains were and still are disrupted. Here at Visibility, we know how exciting the manufacturing industry is and we are honored to serve the amazing companies that make up this industry. Happy MFG Day from the Visibility Team!