Manufacturing Day

Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) is an opportunity for manufacturers to highlight what's taking place on factory floors across the country and to energize a future pipeline of skilled workers. An annual event that occurs on the first Friday of October, MFG Day is an occasion during which manufacturers open their doors to showcase the potential of modern manufacturing and foster interest in manufacturing careers. This year, MFG Day kicks off on Friday, October 4, 2024. Organizations show the public what manufacturing really looks like through more than 3,000 events in each of the 50 states and Puerto Rico with more than 325,000 students, parents, and community members attending.

The rallying point for a growing mass movement, MFG Day empowers manufacturers to come together to address their collective challenges so they can help their communities and future generations thrive. Since its inception, the MEP National Network^TM has participated in MFG Day by hosting, coordinating, and promoting events. You can read this blog to learn more about how MFG Day is changing perceptions and the role the Network has played.

MFG Day - Inspiring the Future Manufacturing Workforce

Celebrate MFG Day with the MEP National Network

You can celebrate MFG Day 2024 with the MEP National Network by attending one of the events below. This is not an exhaustive list of the many events MEP Centers are hosting or participating in across the country and in Puerto Rico. Check back often!

Arkansas

Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions (AMS)

Be Pro/Be Proud Mobile Workshop
October 2-3, 2024
Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) will partner with the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce to participate in their Be Pro/Be Proud mobile workshop activities in the City of Conway on October 2 at the Conway Career Expo and in the City of Maumelle on October 3 at the Maumelle Charter High School’s Career Day.

Be Pro/Be Proud, an initiative led by the Associated Industries of Arkansas Foundation, is bringing a new generation of pride, progress and professionals to America’s skilled workforce.  There are two mobile units consisting of elements of the following skilled trades: Automation/Robotics, CAD/CAM,CNC, CDL, Computer Programming, Construction, Diesel Tech, Electrician, Fiber Optics, Heavy Equipment, HVACR, Machinist, Tool & Die, Welder and more.

Florida

FLATE

FLATE Webinar Series
October 2024
Online
FLATE professional development webinars and workshops provide educators with training on ways to attract and retain students and/or understand new, complex technologies.  All are free to attend and certificates of attendance for PD/CE are available upon request.

Learn more at: https://fl-ate.org/flate-webinar-series/

FloridaMakes

MACF Made in Central Florida Expo
October 17-18, 2024
Connecting tomorrow's talent with today's opportunities. Learn more and register at: https://www.floridamakes.com/madeincentralflorida/micfexpo/expoinfo

Illinois

Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC)

MAXIMIZING YOUR ROI: Crafting Effective Onboarding Programs Workshop Breakfast
October 1, 2024 – 7:30 am - 8:30 am
CCSD 21 Building 959 W Dundee Rd, Wheeling, IL
Join us for an insightful exploration into the fundamentals of onboarding, complete with clear definitions and an interactive workshop where we’ll delve into the profound impacts of subpar onboarding practices. 

Workforce Summit 2024
October 2, 2024 – 7:30 am - 2:15 pm
John A. Logan College - Conference Center 700 Logan College Rd, Carterville, IL
Attend the 3rd workforce summit where information will be presented on current issues and facilitate discussions with local employers.

EXPANDING TALENT PIPELINES: Close Workforce Gaps and Address Talent Shortages Cohort
October 9, 2024 – 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Cohort Zoom link will be available after registration
Participate in a Peer-Based Workshop to amplify our resolve to transform the manufacturing industry, reduce the equity gap, and level the playing field for all. This facilitator-led group discussion gives you the opportunity to connect with other manufacturers and industry experts on solutions to real-time workforce gaps.

2024 MIDWEST AEROSPACE CONFERENCE
October 17, 2024 – 7:00 am - 5:30 pm
Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront & Rockford Conference Center, 416 S Main St, Rockford, IL
Join us for MAC2024, a premier full-day conference dedicated to aerospace. Industry Leaders, be inspired by renowned speakers who will share their insights and vision for the industry.

Ready, Set, Respond: Your 72-Hour Plan for Cyber Incidents
October 17, 2024 – 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Webinar link will be provided after registration
A step-by-step guide to crafting a comprehensive response strategy that kicks in when a cyber incident strikes.

Makers on the Move Manufacturing Month Tour
Designed to showcase modern manufacturing which is high-tech, clean, diverse, and sustainable, the Makers on the Move bus will visit manufacturing facilities, colleges, and high schools across the state to highlight the innovative manufacturing sector and amazing job opportunities that are available today.

This year’s Makers on the Move bus tour is still being scheduled, but you can learn more, request a stop, or become a sponsor by visiting the following website: https://makersonthemove.org/

 Camp CHAMP!
Introduction to Manufacturing for Middle School Students with High School Students being their mentors. CHAMPIONNow!, with the support of IMEC, will be conducting 6 Camp CHAMPs in Illinois prior to mid-December 2024. These camps will be held at schools throughout Illinois.

You can learn about the Camp CHAMP days held in 2023 by visiting this website: https://championnow.org/camp-champ/

Kentucky

Kentucky Manufacturing Extension Partnership (KY-MEP)

2024 Eastern Kentucky SEED Contracting Symposium
October 23, 2024
The Center for Rural Development, 2292 S. Highway 27, Somerset, KY 42501
Supplier Education and Economic Development (SEED) provides training and support services that are specifically designed to enhance the competitiveness of manufacturingcompanies located in coal-impacted counties of Eastern Kentucky. Since 2017, we have collaborated with over 50 advanced manufacturers to provide them with the certifications and training required to meet the demands of major contractors from across the United States. The unique and customized training programs have been tailored to meet the specific needs of each business and delivered in partnership with esteemed organizations such as the Kentucky Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Kentucky APEX Accelerator, the Appalachian Regional Commission, and other partners throughout the region.         

Learn more and register at: https://skedcorp.com/2024-seed-symposium/

2024 KY Industry Conference
October 29-30, 2024
Louisville Marriott Downtown, 280 W. Jefferson St., Louisville, KY
The Kentucky Association of Manufacturers, Metals Innovation Initiative (MI2) and GAMEChange (Generate Advanced Manufacturing Excellence for Change) an NSF funded planning grant to secure economic competitiveness in Kentucky and Tennessee, focused on next-generation and advanced manufacturing, and supply chain and logistics initiatives and the Kentucky ManufacturingExtension Partnership will collaborate in hosting this conference on manufacturing and industry issues. 

Learn more at: https://kam.us.com/event_postings/2024-kentucky-manufacturers-summit-awards-dinner/

Louisiana

Manufacturing Extension Partnership of Louisiana (MEP of LA)

MEP of LA has developed a Louisiana 2024 Manufacturing Day Digital Media Kit. Included in the Kit is the Louisiana Manufacturing Week 2024 video, available for use during the months of September and October 2024 to promote Manufacturing Week. The purpose of the video is to inform and promote local manufacturing careers.

Learn more and download the Kit at: https://mepol.org/manufacturing-day

Maine

Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership (Maine MEP)

Spirit Aerosystems (Formerly Fiber Materials, Inc) Tour
September 27, 2024
5 Morin St, Biddeford, Maine
Spirit Aerosystems is one of the world's largest manufacturers of aerostructures for commercial airplanes, defense platforms, and business/regional jets.  Come join us for a tour of their facility and get a chance to network with like-minded manufacturers in Maine.

Manufacturers Association of Maine's (MAME)2024 Annual Meeting
October 29, 2024
Central Maine Community College, 1250 Turner St, Auburn, ME
This annual meeting is an opportunity to bring manufacturers together as we discuss achievements from last year and goals for the coming year.  

Maritime Industry Day, Deep Dive into the Trades
October 2, 2024
569 Submarine Way, Portsmouth, NH
After exploring the Albacore submarine, get hands-on with interactive STEM activities.  

Massachusetts

Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP)

WIM Summit 2024
October 6-9, 2024
Hynes Convention Center
The Women in Manufacturing (WiM) SUMMIT is the only conference dedicated to supporting, promoting and inspiring women at all levels in the manufacturing industry. While there, you will gain access to key takeaways and actionable information that can be implemented into your career or company for growth and success. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or drive change in the industry, the WiM SUMMIT 2024 is where it all happens!

Register at: https://massmep.org/event/wim-summit-2024/

Innovation and Libations
October 24, 2024
Location TBD
Innovation & Libations is for Massachusetts Manufacturers EXCLUSIVE event to come together and learn more about today’s best practices in the manufacturing industry. The scope of Innovation & Libations was created to focus on a Manufacturer and Brewery in regions across Massachusetts.

Learn more at: https://massmep.org/event/coming-soon-beers-gears-western-mass-massmep-event-2/

Michigan

Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC)

Re:Making Michigan Technology Showcase
October 17, 2024
Northern Michigan University
Be part of Michigan’s manufacturing revolution! MMTC, in partnership with Northern Michigan University, is bringing manufacturers, industry experts, professionals, and students together to explore the growing world of advanced technology. See, touch, and interact with the innovative tools enhancing our industry, from collaborative robots to machine learning.  

Registration link coming soon

Missouri

Missouri Enterprise

Connecting JAG Students with Manufacturers for Tours
October 2024
Missouri Enterprise is connecting JAG Missouri students to manufacturers across the state to hold tours.  JAG-Missouri is dedicated to helping students who have great potential but also face significant barriers. The students have talent, grit, and a hunger to learn. They want to succeed, have a better life, and be productive citizens.  

Sign up at:  https://go.missourienterprise.org/l/891123/2024-07-20/5pywn

Smart Manufacturing Roadshow in partnership with CESMII 
October 2024
St. Louis, MO 
More details on this event will be coming soon.

Montana

Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC)

Manufacturing Day in Missoula
October 3, 2024
Manufacturing Facilities in the Missoula region
MMEC Senior Business Advisor Steve Dybdal is coordinating tours at local manufacturing facilities for middle and high school students. This is his fourth annual event. Details TBD, but based on last year’s event, it is likely to include tours at 10-12 facilities, and attendance by at least 8 schools and 200 students.

 Manufacturing Career Day in Billings
October 10, 2024
Location TBD
Second annual event in Billings.  MMEC Business Advisor Lane Gobbs is co-hosting the event with a committee that includes manufacturers, educators, and the Montana Chamber of Commerce.  Students from schools throughout the region will be invited to attend. Details to follow, but last year’s event was morning tours at manufacturing facilities, followed by an afternoon expo.

New Jersey

New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP)

‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day
October 4, 2024
Event Center at iPA in Freehold NJ
‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day is the East Coast's largest manufacturing networking event of the year. Attendees have a chance to experience everything NJ manufacturing has to offer, learn from industry-critical breakout sessions, network with industry leaders and advocates, and celebrate the winners of the ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturer of the Year awards!

Learn more and register at: http://www.njmep.org/events/manufacturing-day/

New York

Alliance for Manufacturing and Technology (AMT)

Broome Tioga Manufacturing Day
October 8, 2024 – November 14, 2024
Binghamton, NY and surrounding area
AMT is gearing up for over 35 manufacturing tours, welcoming more than 400 students from 15 different school districts! Each tour will feature a stop at our Community College, where students can enjoy pizza and get an inside look at the cutting-edge advanced manufacturing facility. This exciting initiative is made possible through a powerful collaboration with the Community College, various workforce organizations, and agencies.

How It’s MADE: Manufacturing and Development Expo
October 10, 2024
Cortland, NY and surrounding area
This event, in partnership with local businesses, agencies, and educational providers, is designed to showcase dynamic work environments and offer future job seekers engaging demonstrations and activities. Area high school students will have the opportunity to interact with over 20 exhibitors—local organizations known for their interactive work settings, contributions to our community's economic strength, and production of high-quality goods and services. Last year, more than 380 students from 17 schools participated in this exciting experience.

“Made in the Southern Tier” MFG Day
October 4, 2024
Horseheads, NY
This year’s Mfg Day Expo, hosted by the Chemung County Chamber of Commerce Business Education Roundtable, is set to take place at Corning Community College. The event promises an exciting lineup, featuring career exploration opportunities, interactive hands-on activities, STEM learning experiences, and captivating manufacturing demonstrations. It's a chance for attendees to dive into the world of manufacturing and discover the possibilities.

Learn more at: https://chemungchamber.org/events-programming/mfg-day/

New York City Industrial & Technology Assistance Corporation (ITAC)

North Carolina

North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP)

Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) Manufacturing Day Industry Showcase
October 4, 2024
E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center, 2102 Nash St., Sanford, NC 27330
CCCC is hosting its annual MFG Day Industry Showcase. Representatives from local industries (Chatham, Harnett, and Lee counties) will be on-site to showcase their companies and products, present potential career opportunities, and increase manufacturing awareness. CCCC faculty and department chairs will also be on-site with program information related to careers in manufacturing.

Register at: https://apply.cccc.edu/register/2024mfgday

North Dakota

Impact Dakota

Faces of Manufacturing / Manufacturing Day Event 
September 27, 2024
Bismarck, North Dakota 
The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) and Impact Dakota are thrilled to unveil the 2024 list of Faces of Manufacturing in North Dakota. This collaboration aims to highlight the dynamic and evolving workforce in the manufacturing industry, which continues to advance with technological innovations and increasing demand.

More information on this year’s recipients can be found at:  https://www.ndchamber.com/faces-of-manufacturing

Ohio

FastLane

Fastlane/Sinclair Community College Manufacturing Day
October 4, 2024
Sinclair Community College
Hands-on Career Exploration with local manufacturing companies and tours of the educational pathways in manufacturing.  Over 400 high school students and 100 middle school students are expected to participate.

Learn more and register at:  https://www.sinclair.edu/academics/divisions/stem/k-12-outreach/manufacturing-day/#:~:text=Manufacturing%20Day%20is%20an%20annual,the%20first%20Friday%20of%20October

Piqua Manufacturing Days
October 14-17, 2024
12 local manufacturing companies in the City of Piqua
Piqua Manufacturing Days is a career exploration event for the local Career Tech Center (CTC) and Piqua High School students.  It is an opportunity to meet, greet, and gain internship opportunities for the 500 high school students. This event has been so successful that the City Mayor designated a Proclamation noting the third week of October as Piqua Manufacturing Days. 

Pennsylvania

Delaware Valley Industrial Resource Center (DVIRC)

Reimagine Manufacturing 2024
October 18, 2024
Sheraton Valley Forge King of Prussia, 480 N Gulph Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406
DVIRC is proud to present Reimagine Manufacturing 2024, their Annual Summit and Inaugural Manufacturing Excellence Awards.

Learn more at: https://www.reimaginemanufacturing.com/get-engaged

Innovative Manufacturers Center (IMC)

Let’s Celebrate Central PA Manufacturing
November, 7, 2024
Bellefonte, PA
Join IMC as they celebrate the vibrant manufacturing community of Central Pennsylvania and explore the wealth of resources available through regional economic development partners. IMC is thrilled to host this event at a unique and historically significant location – a repurposed metal factory, and now the home of Axemann Brewery. This celebration will bring together manufacturers, economic development professionals, and community leaders to recognize the contributions of local industries and to share valuable resources that can support your business’s growth and success.

Learn more and register at: https://imcpa.com/event/celebrate-mfg/

Social media accounts to tag if available:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/imc---innovative-manufacturers'-center - https://www.facebook.com/IMC.CentralPAManufacturersResource

MANTEC

SMART Manufacturing Conference
October 3, 2024
York Fairgrounds, 334 Carlisle Ave York, PA 17404|
As part of our mission to advance manufacturing in South Central PA, we’ve assembled a group subject matter experts to share info you can use support your team and enhance operations. Whether you’re a leader or an individual contributor, there’s something to be learned at this event. You might even meet your next client or vendor!

Learn more at: https://mantec.org/241003-2024-smart-conference/

Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC)

The Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum
October 3, 2024
Join MRC at the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum, a hub for professionals, businesses, and stakeholders in the vibrant manufacturing community to discuss the unique opportunities, challenges, and innovations shaping the local manufacturing landscape. Discuss key initiatives driving growth, such as workforce development, infrastructure investments, and sustainability practices. Share insights on leveraging regional strengths like access to major markets, skilled labor pools, and educational institutions. Collaborate on solutions to common industry challenges, such as supply chain management, regulatory compliance, and technology adoption. Network with peers, industry leaders, and government representatives to foster partnerships and business opportunities. Celebrate Lehigh Valley's “Manufacturer of the Year,” Crayola.  

Learn more at: https://www.mrcpa.org/event/lehigh-valley-manufacturing-forum-24/

Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC)

NEPIRC's Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY) Best Practices Summit & Expo 
October 4, 2024
Mohegan Pennsylvania Casino and Convention Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA
Join NEPIRC for its annual Manufacturing Day Best Practices Summit & Expo on Friday, October 4th, at the Mohegan Pennsylvania Casino & Convention Center in Wilkes-Barre to celebrate the many contributions of the manufacturers in northeastern, northern and north central Pennsylvania! NEPIRC’s Manufacturing Day Best Practices Summit & Expo is a day filled with networking, learning, seeing the great products made in our region and celebrating the great accomplishments of our manufacturing industry.

Learn more and purchase tickets at: https://nepirc.com/mfgday2024/

Northwest Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NWIRC)

NWIRC MFG Family Day
October 6-12, 2024
Offered to all manufacturers in 13 counties, provide an opportunity for the children and grandchildren of your employees to explore careers in manufacturing by hosting a family tour any day and time during the first full week of Manufacturing Month! 

Register your tour at www.nwirc.org/familyday or contact Tara Lawrence, NWIRC Talent Stream Coordinator at 814.795.9425 tlawrence [at] nwirc.org (tlawrence[at]nwirc[dot]org) for more information.

IU5 STEM & Technology Teacher In-Service Day
October 14, 2024
Erie County & Crawford County Teachers will spend the day at two manufacturers.

Titusville Exploring Manufacturing
October 19, 2024
Titusville Middle School students will visit three manufacturers with their parents, wrapping up their day at the the school with lunch and a chance to win one of many STEM prizes upon completion of a Career Exploration worksheet.

Oil City Exploring Manufacturing
Oil City 8th Grade students will spend half a school day touring Matric Group (Venango County) and participating in hands-on STEM activities offered by a variety of community partners.

Rhode Island

Polaris MEP

Rhode Island’s Future in the Making: Manufacturing Day 2024
October 9, 2024
Farm Fresh Rhode Island, 10 Sims Avenue, Providence, RI 02909
 Polaris MEP will host its third annual Manufacturing Day (MFGDay) Career Exploration Experience event on October 9th, 2024. The day is complete with an exhibitor’s hall featuring 40+ of RI’s manufacturers, a tour around 3 in-use manufacturing training centers, swag bags filled with educational goodies & an interactive workbook to keep track of everything they experienced. School buses will arrive bringing 8th-12th grade students for a “taste test” of manufacturing careers. Last year’s program introduced more than 300 students to the well-paying jobs available in this industry.

 Learn more at: https://polarismep.org/programs/ris-future-in-the-making/

Tennessee

University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services (UT CIS)

Made in Memphis – A Manufacturing Month Celebration
October 2024
Memphis, TN
Every October is National Manufacturing Month, and the Greater Memphis Chamber celebrates with a series of events highlighting local manufacturers and their opportunities. Our UT Center for Industrial Services’ Tennessee MEP center is a key sponsor of this month-long celebration.

Learn more at: https://memphischamber.com/workforce-development/ and https://tmep.cis.tennessee.edu/

Vermont

Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC)

Advanced Manufacturing Day – Can We Make It?
October 10, 2024 
Generator Makerspace, 40 Sears Lane, Burlington, VT 05401
VMEC and Generator Makerspace will play co-hosts for this exciting event that focuses on the importance of careers in manufacturing, inspiring the future manufacturing workforce. The afternoon will include two networking opportunities, a facility tour, co-working space demonstrations, and a panel discussion and Q&A with VT-based manufacturing leaders in their respective industries sharing their knowledge and experience in the Advanced Manufacturing world.  

For complete details and to register, visit: https://vmec.org/training-and-events/. Scroll down to the October 10 Advanced Manufacturing Day – Can We Make It? event. 

Washington

Impact Washington

2024 Manufacturing Week Bus Tour
October 2 – 9, 2024 
2024 Manufacturing Week Schedule and Bus Tour Route:

• October 2 – Greater Vancouver Area & Yakima
• October 3 – Tri-Cities & Pullman
• October 4 – Spokane & Moses Lake
• October 7 – Olympia & Renton
• October 8 – Seattle
• October 9 – Arlington & Monroe & Everett

Every fall, the Association of Washington Business (AWB) hits the road for its annual Manufacturing Week statewide bus tour to highlight the importance of manufacturing to Washington’s economy. Impact Washington, in partnership with AWB, is providing significant financial support to sponsor this bus tour, as well as coordinating tour stops with our clients and nominating them for awards. The tour visits shop floors across the state, showcasing diverse industries—from mint flavoring and agriculture to metal fabrication and pharmaceuticals. The tour highlights Washington’s manufacturers, many of whom are MEP clients, and emphasizes how policymakers, elected officials, Economic Development groups, Chamber of Commerce leaders, and others can support the manufacturing sector. Curated through client nominations, the tour stops will feature awards for the Manufacturing Excellence Award Finalists and include interviews with manufacturers.

Learn more at: https://www.awb.org/events/manufacturing-week/

Other Events of Interest

Manufacturing Institute

Workforce Summit
October 8-10, 2024
Minneapolis, MN
Join the Manufacturing Institute for the Workforce Summit, Manufacturing’s Premier Workforce Event. The Summit will focus on “Solving the Talent Equation“. This annual convening will elevate local and national talent solutions, amplify innovative training strategies and provide attendees with opportunities to explore community partnership models in action for our most persistent workforce challenges.

Learn more and register at: https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/events/workforce-summit-2024/