Create a Promising Future in Manufacturing
What do you picture when you think of a manufacturing job? Long hours and overnight shifts in dark factories are common misconceptions that might scare you away from pursuing a career in manufacturing. This post is a wake-up call to inform you about the diverse array of manufacturing jobs that you can attain to build a very successful future in this trade!
Job Security
According to the National Association of Manufacturers, there are 12.82 million manufacturing workers in America with an estimated 4.6 million more job openings over the next decade (NAM). This points to one important fact: manufacturers have job security and in-demand skills that will allow them to attain competitive wages and benefits. Looking into the job demand in the field that you pursue an education in is an incredibly smart approach when mapping out your future, and the vast majority of skilled trades have very high job demand!
Types of Jobs
We urge you to think outside the stereotypical factory when you think of manufacturing jobs. Alliance Employment Services defines manufacturing jobs as: “…[jobs] that create new products either directly from raw materials or components. These jobs are usually in a factory, plant or mill but can also be in a home, as long as products, not services, are created.” The manufacturing job bucket catches a lot of positions; from the automotive factory worker to the Etsy shop owner who sells handmade jewelry. Here’s a full summary of how the Census Bureau breaks down manufacturing sectors:
- Food, Beverage, and Tobacco
- Textiles, Leather, and Apparel
- Wood, Paper, and Printing
- Petroleum, Coal, Chemicals, Plastics,and Rubber
- Nonmetallic Mineral
- Primary Metal, Fabricated Metal, and Machinery
- Computer and Electronics
- Electrical Equipment, Appliances, and Components
- Transportation
- Furniture
- Miscellaneous Manufacturing
(source: The Balance)
You can clearly see that there are countless job opportunities in manufacturing. Developing skills that fit into one of those sectors will undoubtedly position you for success! Check out our upcoming class schedule to see what skills you can start to develop that you can carry over into a long and fruitful manufacturing career.