Hundreds of local high school students had an opportunity to learn about opportunities in manufacturing during the 2024 Manufacturing Day Celebration on Friday, Oct. 18.
In observance of Manufacturing Day, which is celebrated on the first Friday in October, JSCC brought together students and industry partners as representatives of 12 companies talked with students about career opportunities.
Students also learned about work-based learning and support services available at Jefferson State.
“I think this event was very beneficial to introduce students to the opportunities in manufacturing and connecting with our industry partners,” Dean of Instruction Dr. Brian Gordon said.
About 460 students attended the event, which was held at Lurleen Wallace Hall on the college’s Jefferson Campus. Attendees talked with industry representatives, met JSCC faculty and examined hands-on demonstrations.
Programs at Jefferson State that were represented at Manufacturing Day include mechatronics, welding, and biomedical equipment technology.
Marty Schreiber of CMC Steel Alabama said his company has enjoyed a long partnership with Jefferson State.
“We attended the event for Manufacturing Day, and we had students from all over Jefferson County and the area come in, getting interested in these companies, asking about CMC and what their futures could look like,” Schreiber said. “It’s great to get our names out there and for folks to understand that when you get out of high school, there are a lot of opportunities out there for great careers.”
CMC Steel Alabama is also one of the charter members of Magic City FAME, a program based at Jefferson State that partners industry with area employees for work-based learning opportunities focused on high-demand skills and credentials.
“FAME has been pivotal in our manufacturing world,” said Amy Arnette of Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, and president of Magic City FAME. “FAME gives us the opportunity as employers to work with our education partners to develop that curriculum that will build that pipeline right into the multi-craft mechanic role that we all need.”
Schools participating in Manufacturing Day included: Huffman High School, Pinson Valley High School, Pell City High School, Center Point High School, Gardendale High School, Jackson-Olin High School, Eden Career Center, Minor High School, George W. Carver High School, and i3 Academy.
Learn more about manufacturing programs at Jefferson State by clicking here.
Learn more about Magic City FAME by clicking here.
