MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, and its affiliate Partners for Education & Business, Inc. (PEB) have started a series of facility tours in October to mark New York State’s Manufacturing Month. The initiative involves 15 local manufacturers hosting visits for over 450 students from 11 school districts in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.
The purpose of Manufacturing Month is to introduce students to real-world examples of advanced manufacturing careers that are important for local economies. The program connects students with employers and aims to inspire future workers while addressing workforce challenges in the industry.
“Manufacturing Month is about inspiring the next generation and showing them the exciting, meaningful careers available right here in New York. By opening their doors, manufacturers are not only highlighting advanced technologies and innovation, but also their vital role in building strong communities. We’re proud to partner with educators and industry leaders to create pathways for students to join this dynamic and growing sector,” said Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY.
Students toured several facilities including Gardall Safe Corporation; Golden Artist Colors; TTM Technologies; INFICON; Belden; Byrne; Eaton; JPW Structural Contracting, Inc.; Morse Manufacturing; Haun Welding Supply & Specialty Gases; OCWA – Central New York’s Water Authority; and Ralph W. Earl. During these visits, they observed various aspects of modern manufacturing such as precision metalwork, electronics production, specialty products, and infrastructure work. They also interacted with employees to learn about career paths and training opportunities.
BuildSubmarines.com serves as the Presenting Sponsor for MACNY’s Manufacturing Month activities by providing a national platform connecting job seekers with submarine manufacturing training programs and jobs. Other organizations like Mohawk Valley Community College, Worthington Steel, and Indium Corporation will offer additional tours later in October.
“These tours give students the unique opportunity to see modern manufacturing in action — from the equipment and processes to the people who make it all possible. For many, it’s their first time stepping inside a facility and envisioning themselves in a future career. Manufacturing Month allows us to connect education with industry in powerful ways, helping young people explore career options while strengthening our region’s workforce pipeline,” said Emily Langan, Manager of PEB.
MACNY is also partnering with United Way of Central New York for an event called MFG Connects: Your Community at Anheuser-Busch’s Tasting Room this week. The gathering will bring together manufacturers and community partners to highlight workforce development efforts within the region.
“From our beginning in 1917, United Way of Central New York has benefitted from the ardent support of local manufacturers,” said Meghann Sandak, Chief Development Officer for United Way of Central New York. “We are excited to work with MACNY, and grateful for the support of Anheuser-Busch, to gather and celebrate the essential role of manufacturers in supporting our thriving community.”
“MACNY’s celebration of Manufacturing Month is a reminder that collaboration can shape the future of our region’s workforce,” said Scott Walker, VP of Operations for INFICON, Inc. “INFICON is proud to show students and teachers that today’s manufacturing is driven by innovation, precision, and advanced technology. Our cleanrooms are high-tech and dynamic; it’s exactly the kind of exposure that can spark interest in a manufacturing career.”
More information about Manufacturing Month can be found at www.macny.org/manufacturing-month.
