FUTURE GENERATIONS
Picture this: A high school senior who's never set foot in a factory discovers they have a passion for precision machining. A pre-apprentice lands their dream job at a cutting-edge facility. A young professional realizes that manufacturing isn't just about making things; it's about making a difference.
This is what we are seeing every day across Northeast Ohio!
This month, we're highlighting the rising stars who are choosing manufacturing as their pathway to success. You'll meet the bright minds stepping boldly into this industry, discover how pre-apprenticeship programs are becoming launching pads for remarkable careers, and see how our community continues to spark innovation that will define tomorrow's manufacturing landscape.
The future of manufacturing is bright and brilliant. And it's being shaped by the next generation of makers, creators, and innovators right here in our backyard.
WSJ Highlights the Problem; Pre-Apprenticeship is Our Solution!
The Wall Street Journal’s recent article, "The Schools Reviving Shop Class Offer a Hedge Against the AI Future," shines a spotlight on the rising demand for hands-on skills in high schools.
At Manufacturing Works, we’re at the forefront of this shift, offering a solution through our pre-apprenticeship to registered apprenticeship pathway.
Read the post and watch the video from our work with CVCC, LCJVS, and Max S. Hayes High School to see how students are gaining the real-world experience they need to become the next generation of skilled workers.
Students Get a Real Taste of Manufacturing's Future
Imagine 33 high school students walking into Beckett Thermal Solutions and discovering that manufacturing isn't what they expected... it's cooler, more high-tech, and way more exciting than they ever imagined.
That's exactly what happened during our recent plant tour in North Ridgeville, where students from four local high schools got an up-close look at robotics, automation, and cutting-edge production systems in action.
Want to see how we're inspiring the next generation of manufacturing leaders? Read the full story about this eye-opening experience on our blog.
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Why Apprenticeships Are The Industry's Secret to Future Success
When Beth Dawson, our Director of Apprenticeship, stepped into the WISE Women Radio Show studio, she revealed why apprenticeships are revolutionizing how we build careers in manufacturing. Beth's passion for workforce development shines through as she discusses the unique combination of hands-on learning and mentorship that makes apprenticeships so powerful. Tune in here to listen.
Total Distribution, Inc. (TDI)
We are excited to congratulate Manufacturing Works' Member, Total Distribution, Inc. (TDI), a leading logistics and supply chain provider that has recently earned national recognition by being named to Transport Topics’ 2025 Top Dry Storage and Dedicated Contract Carriers lists. TDI advanced to #22 on the Top Dry Storage Warehousing list and made its debut on the Top 50 Dedicated Contract Carriers list for the first time.
With over 13 million square feet of space nationwide, TDI provides a comprehensive range of logistics services, including food-grade and bulk storage, drumming and packaging, inventory management, and an on-site fleet. Their continued growth and expansion reflect their commitment to service, flexibility, and innovation within the logistics industry.
“We’re thrilled to be recognized by Transport Topics. This achievement is a testament to the incredible work our team does every day to serve our customers and drive performance,” said Darin Haines, Chief Operating Officer of TDI.
Congrats to TDI on this well-deserved recognition, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in the logistics space!
The Reality Check: Manufacturer Optimism Takes a Hit
The latest quarterly survey from the National Association of Manufacturers delivers some sobering news—manufacturer optimism has plummeted to its lowest point since the pandemic's peak. With only 55% of manufacturers feeling positive about their company's future (down from 70% just three months ago), the industry is grappling with some serious headwinds.
The culprits? Trade uncertainty tops the list, keeping 77% of manufacturers up at night. Add skyrocketing raw material costs, healthcare expenses, and tariffs that are adding an average of 7.7% to business costs, and you've got a perfect storm of challenges. But here's what's encouraging: 85% of manufacturers believe smart tax policies could help weather this storm, and industry leaders are actively pushing for solutions that protect jobs and economic growth. View the survey results
The Bright Side: Manufacturing Leads the Innovation Charge
While challenges grab headlines, here's the inspiring reality: U.S. manufacturers are absolutely crushing it when it comes to innovation. They're responsible for a staggering 75% of all private-sector research and development in America—talk about punching above their weight!
The AI revolution is particularly exciting, with over half of manufacturers already integrating artificial intelligence into their operations. From AI-powered safety cameras that protect workers to sophisticated supply chain optimization, the technology is transforming how things get made. Even more impressive? By 2030, 80% of manufacturers expect AI to be essential to their business growth. Learn more about how AI is leading the charge into manufacturing's high-tech future.
Recognizing Those That Make The Ground Fertile For The Future
Thanks to all those who attended Manufacturing Works' most inspiring event of the year! Our Annual Meeting was on June 12th, and we celebrated the stars who are transforming manufacturing in Northeast Ohio.
This year's theme was “The Power of Community” and featured some incredible stories emerging from our Leadership Institute, Apprenticeship programs, and ManuFuture initiatives. We heard directly from the people whose lives have been transformed and saw firsthand how community collaboration creates real, measurable change.
We’re also excited to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious awards:
Jon Shoop: Strategic Partner Award – Recognizing his outstanding contributions and partnership in advancing manufacturing excellence.
Glenn Richardson: Community Champion Award – Honoring his dedication to supporting the community and strengthening manufacturing through regional economic development initiatives.
Re: Build CDi: Mission Builder Award – Celebrating their innovative approach and mission-driven impact in the manufacturing sector
Thank you to everyone who joined us!
NUL Career Fair: July 15th-16th: Your Gateway to Cleveland's Hidden Talent
Forget everything you think you know about job fairs. The 2025 National Urban League Career & Networking Fair in Cleveland will make serious talent directly within reach. This is about strategic talent acquisition with flexible participation options (on-site, virtual, or hybrid), early access to qualified candidates through IQ sourcing, and innovative engagement opportunities like virtual roundtables. With hundreds of motivated job seekers in one place and a robust tracking platform to streamline your process, you'll maximize your recruitment efforts while building a pipeline for future needs. Mark your calendars for July 15th-16th, 11am-4pm at Huntington Convention Center. This is where Cleveland's next generation of manufacturing talent is waiting to meet you. Register at this link.
If you're interested in having access to all of these programs and training opportunities, contact us today. Manufacturing Works membership is ready to deliver the workforce development solutions you need to grow the skillsets of your employees—and your business.
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