As we move into 2026, now is the time for educators and administrators to set intentional goals for the remainder of this school year and looking for improvements in the next. Manufacturing careers are evolving rapidly, and schools play a critical role in preparing students for these opportunities. This blog covers a few proactive steps you can take today!
1. Leverage Online Resources
We have a host of online resources that are available to everyone!
- Industry 4.0 Resource Guide created as part of our Industry 4.0 Teacher Academy offers resources, reports, news articles, and more to help you learn about advanced manufacturing concepts and integrate into your classroom.
- Forging Your Future: A micro course suite that includes an introduction to manufacturing, blueprint reading, and measurement and hand tools. These are short modules great for exposing students to manufacturing and skills needed to succeed.
- Access lesson plans, career profiles, videos, and activities that make manufacturing careers relatable and exciting on ExploreNewMfg.org
2. Plan Career Exposure Activities
In this school year or the next getting your students face-to-face with industry professional is extremely important! Seeing advanced manufacturing in-person may spark interest in future careers.
- Tours of Manufacturing Companies: Nothing beats seeing innovation firsthand. Schedule tours for students to experience modern manufacturing environments.
- Guest Speakers: Invite industry professionals to share their career journeys and insights. Virtual options make this easy and accessible.
3. Prep for Course Additions of No-Cost Programs
Now is the time to plan for next year’s curriculum. Consider adding any of the following programs offered by Catalyst Connection at no-cost to the school district:
- What’s So Cool About Manufacturing Middle School Student Video Contest Program to engage students creatively while exploring manufacturing careers and share with the entire district and your community.
- Industrial Manufacturing Technician Pre-Apprenticeship Program for industry recognized credentials, community college credits, hands-on learning experiences, paid work experiences, and more!
- Manufacturing Innovation Challenge (MIC) Program for real-world problem-solving, teamwork, and industry engagement to build student resumes.
4. Teacher Professional Development
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TRETC Conference: As a sponsor, we encourage educators to attend this leading regional technology and education event. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore innovative teaching strategies, network with peers, and learn how technology and advanced manufacturing can transform classrooms.
- Industry 4.0 Teacher Academy returns in early 2026 with general information sessions and hands-on deep dive sessions into various technologies.
- 3-Day Summer Academy is back in August! This is an immersive experience to help educators bring cutting-edge manufacturing concepts into the classroom.
5. Stress the Importance of Career Awareness
Every interaction whether a tour, a guest speaker, or a classroom activity helps students see the possibilities in manufacturing. These experiences can spark interest and shape career paths.
Why it Matters
Manufacturing is no longer just assembly lines… it’s robotics, automation, and so many other Industry 4.0 technologies. Exposing students to these careers early helps them envision a future in high-demand fields. Teachers and administrators are the bridge between classrooms and the workforce!
Start now!
Together, we can make 2026 the year we empower students with knowledge and opportunities in manufacturing.