On October 2nd, Catalyst Connection, in partnership with the ARM Institute and Carnegie Mellon University’s Manufacturing Futures Institute, proudly hosted our annual National Manufacturing Day event at Mill 19. This yearly celebration is designed to inspire and engage the next generation of talent in the world of advanced manufacturing.
This year, we welcomed approximately 80 students from 9 local schools. Students had the opportunity to rotate through several exciting sessions. The event provided students with a unique opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on and educational activities that gave them direct exposure to the rapidly changing world of manufacturing technology.
These sessions included a panel discussion with industry professionals who shared their experiences and offered insights into the growing opportunities within the manufacturing sector, an interactive table expo where they met with representatives from local higher education institutions, workforce development organizations, and manufacturing companies who showcased pathways and resources that connect students to future careers in STEM and advanced manufacturing, and finally a tour of the Mill 19 facility with demos of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies that are shaping the future of the industry.
Alongside students, we were honored to have district administrators from various schools join us as special guests for these sessions alongside the students. After the event, these administrators joined us for a lunch session where we shared the no-cost STEM programs offered by Catalyst Connection, the ARM Institute, and Carnegie Mellon’s Manufacturing Futures Institute. These programs are designed to ensure that students, no matter their background, have access to the tools and opportunities they need to explore careers in STEM fields.
Each year, National Manufacturing Day serves as a reminder of the critical role that manufacturing plays in our economy and the exciting future that awaits the next generation of innovators. By bridging the gap between education and industry, events like this help equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in an ever-evolving job market.
At Catalyst Connection, we are proud to continue this tradition and are committed to providing engaging and accessible opportunities that inspire students to explore careers in advanced manufacturing. We look forward to growing this event in the years to come and creating even more opportunities to connect students with the tools they need to build a bright future.
Check out some of the event highlights in the photos below!
