Explore Real Careers in Modern Manufacturing
Choosing a career path can feel overwhelming, but hearing real stories and seeing real workplaces can make the decision easier. Manufacturing today is about innovation — robotics, automation, data, and advanced technologies that power Industry 4.0. These careers are shaping the future, and they need creative, skilled problem-solvers like you.
Often overlooked or underdiscussed, manufacturing is one of the largest and fastest growing fields because it is at the center of some of the most innovative products and practices today. Manufacturers work with robotics, data, artificial intelligence, programming, and much more. Students often are unaware of the various opportunities within the industry. Educating students and providing them with industry awareness, job outlook, daily activities, and first-hand accounts allows students to realize their potential to prosper in the manufacturing industry.
See Manufacturing Careers in Action
Manufacturing is more than machines—it’s innovation, technology, and people shaping the future. Watch these videos to explore real workplaces, hear from professionals, and discover the exciting opportunities waiting for you.
Meet Our Past Manufacturing Navigators
Our Manufacturing Navigator program highlighted young professionals who shared their experiences with students and educators. While the program has ended, their stories remain powerful examples of what’s possible in modern manufacturing.
Click each profile to learn:
- What inspired them to choose manufacturing
- The skills and education that helped them succeed
- Their advice for students considering this path

Brandon Richards
Machinist
Aggressive Grinding Service

Carol Nelson
Applications Engineer
MECCO

Chase Miller
Sales Engineer
CASCO USA

Ellen Vermilya
Practitioner
Millliken & Co.

Zachariah Gehm
Continuous Improvement Engineer
SMS Group

Cameron Fouse
Machinist
MetPlas, Inc.

Beverly Bronder
Quality, Environmental, Health and Safety Manager
Sensia LLC

Nick Parmar
Business Development Manager & Administrator – Program Management
Innovative Electronics Corp

Ethan Birth
Machinist Aprentice
Global SFC Valve, Inc.

Lauren Morlacci
Continuous Improvement Manager
L&S Machine Company

Dylan Archinal
Accountant
MetPlas, Inc.

Amber Wharrey
HR & Safety Administrator
JV Manufacturing

Eric Stewart
Supervisor I, Manufacturing Services
ZOLL Life Vest

Erika Hill
Staff Manufacturing Systems Specialist
ZOLL Manufacturing Service

Dane Eddy
CNC Machinist and Programmer
MetPlas, Inc.

Jessi Kadlecik
Finishing Lead
5 Generation Bakers

Paul Miller
Sales Engineer
CASCO USA

Charles Kammerer
Technical Operations Project Manager
C4 Therapeutics

Amber Nolf
Corporate Development Specialist
SMS Group

Jonathan Donath
Quality Engineer
MSA, The Safety Company

She'Cholle Winmon
Lab Assistant
RE2, Inc.

Ryan Kozikowski
Coil Winder
BRUSH Americas

Kendra Slis
Inside Sales Engineer
MECCO

Zac McConnell
Systems Tester
Prominent Fluid Controls

Genna Mucci
Executive Assistant
J.V. Manufacturing

Jacob Curley
Assembly Technician
MECCO
Ready to Explore More?
Want to learn more about manufacturing careers and opportunities?
Check out the high demand careers in manufacturing to see what may interest you!