Celebrating Manufacturing and Its Impact on Communities
Each year, the first Friday in October marks National Manufacturing Day (MFG Day)—a celebration dedicated to showcasing the importance and impact of manufacturing on our economy and daily lives. Initiated by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the Manufacturing Institute, this day emphasizes not only the contributions of manufacturing but also its evolution. MFG Day offers an opportunity for companies, schools and communities to come together to highlight careers, innovations and opportunities within the manufacturing sector.
The Chamber has celebrated National Manufacturing Day since 2017. Most years, other than 2020 and 2021 due to Covid, our Business Retention & Expansion Committee has coordinated free public tours of local manufacturers. This year, due to the popularity of the tours, we expanded it to a month-long celebration, which is just coming to an end. In all, 13 manufacturers in Sheridan and Johnson counties hosted a total of 32 free public tours with hundreds of students and community members attending. In addition to the 32 scheduled tours, our two participating manufacturers in Johnson County hosted daily tours.
Why celebrate Manufacturing Day?
The primary goal of National Manufacturing Day is to inspire the next generation of manufacturers by addressing common misconceptions about the industry. Historically, manufacturing may have been perceived as outdated, monotonous or low-skilled, but today, it’s an industry at the forefront of technology and innovation. By showcasing modern manufacturing’s advancements, MFG Day aims to reshape perceptions, showing young people and job seekers that the field offers rewarding, skilled careers in technology-driven environments.
Address the Employee Shortage: Over the next decade, 3.8 million new manufacturing workers will need to be hired in the U.S. Many manufacturing companies report facing a talent shortage due to an aging workforce and a lack of skilled young workers entering the field. MFG Day is a way to bridge this gap by exposing students, teachers, parents and community members to career opportunities within the industry. Through these public tours, individuals can experience manufacturing firsthand and understand the various pathways available, from engineering and robotics to digital design and quality assurance.
Highlight Innovation and Technology: Manufacturing has transformed into a high-tech, innovative industry powered by artificial intelligence, automation and 3D printing. MFG Day demonstrates how these new technologies are integrated into the manufacturing process, enhancing efficiency and creating new types of skilled roles. By highlighting modern manufacturing, MFG Day helps dispel old stereotypes and promotes the industry as a progressive, tech-centered sector.
Strengthening the Local Economy: Manufacturing is a key contributor to our local economy, providing jobs, driving exports and supporting supply chains. National Manufacturing Day encourages local communities to appreciate the value manufacturing brings, showcasing how these businesses support not only employees but also the broader economy.
National Manufacturing Day is more than just a celebration; it’s an essential step toward building the future of manufacturing. By highlighting modern manufacturing, we can ensure a thriving industry that supports innovation, sustainability and economic prosperity for years to come.
