Manufacturing Week 2023:  Greater Lansing Industry Innovators to Nurture Talent Pipeline - Despite Strike and Impending Layoffs

(LANSING) — During the week of October 2nd, Capital Area Manufacturing Council (CAMC) members will extend their hospitality to over 1000 students from Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee, Livingston, and Ionia counties in celebration of National Manufacturing Day. These K-12 presentations are a vital component of a nationwide initiative aimed at reshaping the public's perception of the modern manufacturing industry and shining a spotlight on the abundant career prospects within the sector. Activities planned include facility tours, interactive workshops, employee Q&A sessions, technology showcases, and mentorship sessions focusing on career pathways.

CAMC Director Cindy Kangas knows how essential Manufacturing Day can be. “This year, however, the climate in manufacturing is different. As we gather the students, the automotive industry is experiencing strikes, and tiered suppliers are making difficult decisions about layoffs. This undoubtedly presents unprecedented challenges to the ecosystem that we cherish. Many of our students were scheduled to visit these facilities,” she said. “It has been truly heartening to witness several other area manufacturers open their facilities to accommodate as many as six extra tours, all in an effort to ensure that Manufacturing Week remains a beacon of hope where all interested students can consider these careers. We hope this spirit of unity and resilience becomes the narrative of local manufacturing,” she went on. “Regardless of the industry or sector, one common thread binds all members of our community, a steadfast commitment to nurturing the talent pipeline.” 

.”We are excited to launch Manufacturing Week at Lansing Community College," said Shon’ta Dwyer, Interim Dean of Technical Careers at Lansing Community College. "This event not only celebrates Michigan's manufacturing heritage but also aims to inspire the next generation of skilled workers, fostering diversity and innovation that will drive our state's future. Our state-of-the-art facilities, coupled with our skilled faculty possessing extensive industry experience, provide the perfect backdrop for this celebration of manufacturing excellence."

“We appreciate the opportunity our local manufacturers provide by allowing students from the Wilson Talent Center to visit their facilities as part of Manufacturing Week. It is important that our students can see first-hand how the skills they are learning in the classroom translate into industry and learn what additional education or training they will need to pursue their career goals,” said Joe Wenzel, Wilson Talent Center, Principal

The event will kick off with a press conference at LCC West Campus on October 2nd at 8:00 am, that includes several student speakers.. A tour of West Campus will follow.