For the first time ever, Governor Walz proclaimed the entire month of October as Manufacturing Month. Manufacturing is Central Minnesota’s second largest employing industry, providing nearly 40,000 jobs with an average annual wage of more than $57,500, well above the region’s overall average of $48,500. Manufacturing also accounted for 11.4% of statewide employment and provided 14% of the state’s gross domestic product in 2020, so it’s clear that the health of Minnesota’s economy is closely tied to the strength of the manufacturing industry.

Contrary to some of the myths about manufacturing, it is not going away. In fact, 86,500 manufacturing job openings are expected in the state of MN by 2028, as older workers retire. It’s important to work in a safe, clean, high-tech environment. Some plants are among the most state-of-the-art and sanitary environments you can find. High-tech machinery and workplace standards are designed to protect safety and well-being. Robotics and automation, artificial intelligence and 3D printing are among the technologies being used in manufacturing. Minnesota Manufacturers make everything from life-saving biomedical, biotech products to food, and countless other useful products.

Manufacturing workplaces are increasingly diverse and welcoming. Employers are actively seeking to hire men and women of all races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Older workers and people changing careers are welcome. Manufacturing needs people with all levels of education, from a high school diploma or equivalent to advanced degrees in science, technology, math, or engineering. Employees also have opportunities for growth. Many employers offer free on-the-job training and other continuous learning opportunities. Entry-level jobs can be a stepping-stone to higher level positions.

Problem-solving skills, math skills, and mechanical aptitude are valued. From hands-on production jobs to executive sales and leadership roles, anyone can find interesting work with high-earning potential in manufacturing.

Locally, CMMA offered its first ever virtual magazine, highlighting in-person and virtual tours that was offered during October, and throughout the year. This magazine was developed and shared with local schools and communities to encourage parents, students, teachers, nonprofits, and job seekers to understand the career pathways available to them in manufacturing. In our region, there were 14 in-person or virtual tours of manufacturers highlighted in the magazine, including the businesses of: Rotochopper; DCI, Inc; DeZURIK; Coldspring; Thermo-Tech Windows & Doors, CWMF; TyloHelo, Inc; Park Industries; Metal Craft; Seitz Stainless; Hansen & Company Woodworks; West Central Steel, Inc; and Nova-Tech Engineering. CMMA partners such as DEED, CMJTS, and Career Solutions also worked with 25 different schools and almost 1,000 students throughout a 13-county region in central MN who were interested in touring manufacturers in their community. For more information, go to the Central Minnesota Tour of Manufacturing VIRTUAL MAGAZINE or on the Manufacturing Month page at CMMAWorks.org.

CMMA also invested in digital marketing and geo-tracking for the month. In the 31 days of October we saw a total of 188,220 impressions served to our target audiences. This was almost 6,072 impressions/ads per day, almost 253 impressions/ads every hour or over 4 impressions every 60 seconds. These impressions influenced 713 actions which were 686 clicks to ads which directed individuals to CMMA’s website where they could gather more information, call or reach out along with 27 committed to visit one of the tours. On average, there were 23 actions each day during Manufacturing month.

CMMA was also highlighted on numerous radio stations in the region, including advertisements, interviews, and manufacturing quizzes on 98-Country in St Cloud area, Q102 in Willmar area, KBEK in North Branch area, KRWC in Monticello area, and local Somali radio station, KVSC. There were several online presentations that also took place, including DEED’s Workforce Wednesday, which highlighted ways to recruit and retain employees. There were also presentations from the MN Department of Employment and Department of Labor on setting up Apprenticeship programs.

CMMA also hosted our second very successful CTE Jamboree at ROCORI High School, where school leaders, CTE faculty, and manufacturers were in attendance. Our keynote speaker at the Jamboree was DEED’s Commissioner, Steve Grove, who spoke of the importance of strengthening youth career experiences prior to graduation. Coldspring also offered tours of their foundry to the attendees. Rocori HS hosted a second tour of their CTE facilities including their innovation center, building construction, agriculture, automotive, metals, woods and family consumer programs.

The state of Minnesota shared manufacturing career exploration resources, organizing career exploration events, tours of manufacturers, personalized school presentations, and many other activities during Manufacturing Month at CareerForceMN.com/Manufacturing.