Manufacturing Companies Need to build a pipeline to attract and retain skilled workers. Manufacturing Works connects students to the employee training and development opportunities within manufacturing.

Opening Doors to Manufacturing Careers 

Creating tomorrow's manufacturing workforce sector begins with engaging and educating students about the opportunities.

We currently operate youth pre-apprenticeship programs at five schools in Northeast Ohio.

Our programs were even recognized at the national level where a cabinet member visited the school to see our innovative workforce solution in action! 

How We Help School Districts

Manufacturing Works provides guidance on developing quality work-based learning experiences that align with Ohio Department of Education & Workforce (ODE&W) standards. Through our partnerships with local school districts and employers, we create a clear pathway into Northeast Ohio's in-demand manufacturing careers.

Learn more about the Youth Pre-Apprenticeship to Registered Apprenticeship Pathway

As an approved ApprenticeOhio sponsor, Manufacturing Works assists districts in developing manufacturing pre-apprenticeship programs that:

• Meet Ohio's graduation requirements by offering alternative pathways
• Position graduates to earn credits towards a Registered Apprenticeship program 
• Provide students with portable credentials recognized by the State of Ohio
• Open doors to quality employment opportunities
• Offer potential college credits
  
  

Our Youth Services Include:

• Customized Internships: Our internship program includes learning objectives, onsite observations, and career coaching. Internships are customized to meet the needs of the students and companies.
• Job Shadows: Job shadows are short-term, unpaid worksite experiences in which students spend up to two hours with an experienced worker to observe daily activities.
• Plant Tours: Plant tours expose youth to manufacturing careers and provide the opportunity for students to see manufacturing in action.
• Classroom Presentations: Speakers conduct virtual, interactive career-related presentations to students. They discuss what it's like to work in their industries and talk about career-specific educational requirements and their own career paths.
• Resumé Development: Students can use one of our templates to develop their resumés for job shadows, internships, and permanent employment opportunities. The Manufacturing Works Youth Team guides the students through the process.
  
• Career Prep: Our team offers exposure to different fields within manufacturing, along with soft skills development like problem-solving, interview communication, and negotiation skills to help students get the most from their new careers. 

For questions on how to start a pre-apprenticeship program at your school or if you're an employer looking to connect with our student talent, contact Jessica Westropp, Manager, Youth Workforce Development.