High school seniors in Jackson County got a glimpse into their potential futures at a manufacturing trade show aimed at building the next generation of skilled workers.
"We have to have a pipeline available in Jackson," Amanda Hutchings, President of Peak Manufacturing, said.
The Jackson County Manufacturing Trade Show brought together local companies and students, giving seniors a chance to explore careers in trades and manufacturing.
"That next generation, you know, we have to get them excited and get them interested in manufacturing," Hutchings said.
- Jackson County trade show connected high school seniors with manufacturing companies to build a local workforce pipeline.
- Students gained hands-on experience with industry tools while developing essential professional skills.
- Both industry leaders and participating students recognized the importance of youth engagement in manufacturing's future.
The event was designed to create connections between students and potential employers while showcasing the variety of opportunities available in the local manufacturing sector.
"We wanted an opportunity for them to meet, you know, a variety of companies and really get a broader picture of what manufacturing looks like in Jackson. But also an opportunity for the companies to meet a variety of students," Kelly Kofflin, Executive Director of Shop Rat Foundation and event organizer, said.
Some students, like Kayleigh Tucker, have already begun preparing for careers in the industry.
"I work in engineering, and I go to S.T.E.M. class, and I'm in college for S.T.E.M. So, um, it just makes me think about what I want to do for my future," Tucker said.
During the event, students received hands-on experience with robotics, tools, and welding, giving them practical exposure to the skills needed in manufacturing careers.
Beyond technical skills, the trade show also helped students develop professional abilities that will serve them in any workplace.
"How to have a conversation with an adult, how to shake a hand, how to make eye contact. Those are all things that are gonna help you in the professional setting, just getting off on the right foot," Marketing Coordinator for Jackson County ISD, Kaci Babineau, said.
For students like Tucker, the experience reinforced the important role they'll play in the industry's future.
"It's kinda nice because we're like the future of manufacturing, so all of us being here is great," Tucker said.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
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