West Tennessee students will tour area facilities for manufacturing career days

JACKSON, Tenn. – Students from 22 high schools will visit 15 area companies for Manufacturing Day 2017 to learn about a career in a growing industry that expects two million job openings over the next decade.

Co-sponsored locally by Jackson State Community College and the Jackson Chamber, Manufacturing Day is a national celebration of modern manufacturing held each year on the first Friday in October. However, the West Tennessee event had to be scheduled over two days because of a high level of interest.

Student tours of facilities will be Oct. 6 and Oct. 20, from 9 a.m. to noon.

“Today’s manufacturing industry is highly technical with various career opportunities,” said Terri Messer, Jackson State’s dean of business and industry. “It’s also safer and more advanced with the growing use of computers and robots. It’s a very solid career move for anyone who wants to work in a tech-savvy environment that is ever-changing.”

Wages are also growing, she said. For example, the average manufacturing wage in Tennessee is $61,000, which is $20,000 higher than the state’s median income.

And, because the industry is always adapting to new technology, it engages Millennials who want to work in a cutting-edge field, she said. It also provides workers with the satisfaction of making things that are a part of everyday life.

During the event, each day will begin at a manufacturing company in its conference or training rooms. Jackson State staff and faculty members will share a 30-minute presentation about manufacturing. The companies will also give a presentation, as well as a tour of the facility for students and representatives of the college and the chamber.

Lunch will then be provided by the manufacturers for most of the tour groups at their location. High schools will provide transportation for students.

The Manufacturing Day events raise awareness about the industry across the country. Nationally, more than 2,000 communities with more than 265,000 students will participate this year.

Jackson State Community College provides accessible learning opportunities that enhance the lives of individuals, strengthen the workforce and empower the diverse communities of West Tennessee. The institution offers traditional and contemporary associate degrees, certificates, continuing education and enrichment, and college-readiness programs.