MCC aims to dispel myths about manufacturing careers
McHenry County College Workforce Development and the Manufacturing Pathways Consortium have teamed up to recognize National Manufacturing Month this October.
The nationwide event is held each year to celebrate modern manufacturing, dispel some of the common misconceptions around the manufacturing industry, and inspire the future generation of manufacturers.
“National Manufacturing Month is a great opportunity to create awareness about this important work and recognize the contributions of local manufacturers,” said CathepPresident of Workforce Development at MCC.
“Manufacturing is a key industry sector in McHenry County. To help sustain continued growth, local employers are looking to MCC and organizations like the Manufacturing Pathways Consortium to collaboratively address the need for increased recruitment, hiring, and training of highly skilled workers.”
Founded in 2019, the Manufacturing Pathways Consortium is made up of 200 local manufacturers, educators, and community partners working together to strengthen the employment pipeline focused on future careers within the manufacturing industry.
MCC offers several training programs to prepare students for careers in manufacturing, including Advanced Manufacturing, Manufacturing Management, CNC Machining, Welding, Engineering Technology, and Industrial Maintenance.
The college also offers an apprenticeship option for many of these programs. As part of their apprenticeship, students receive on-the-job training from a company mentor while earning a salary and benefits.
These students also have the full cost of their MCC education covered by the participating program employer, allowing them to graduate with no college debt and a high-skills job.
Some of the events taking place during National Manufacturing Month include:
• Manufacturing, Trade, and Industry Career Expo: Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. A variety of McHenry County industries will be on-site at McHenry High School's Center for Science, Technology, and Industry to showcase the educational pathways available to students as they seek careers in these sectors. Students and parents across the county are encouraged to attend this free event.
• Job and Internship Fair: Thursday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All jobseekers are welcome to attend this in-person event — hosted in partnership with the McHenry County Workforce Network — in the MCC Gym. A schedule of seminars (both in-person and virtual) will be offered in the days leading up to the event on a variety of career and job search topics. Register and learn more: www.mchenry.edu/jobfair.
• Manufacturing, Architecture, and Construction Pathways Seminar: Thursday, Oct. 13, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in MCC Co-Lab B and 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom. Those interested in manufacturing, architecture, and construction careers are encouraged to attend this event, either in person or via Zoom. The Pathways and Career Services team will interview representatives from these industries to show the numerous opportunities available in the field and the skills and experience necessary to get there. Register at bit.ly/3rl1Ezj.
• Consortium-Hosted Shop Plant Tours: Oct. 19 and 27 from 6:30 to 7 p.m. and 7:30 to 8 p.m. Students and their families can visit their choice of 15 participating local manufacturers for each of the evenings listed. Spaces are limited. Register at bit.ly/3rjm0sC.
To learn more about the Manufacturing Pathways Consortium, visit www.mfgpathways.com.
For more on manufacturing programs and apprenticeships at MCC, visit www.mchenry.edu/manufacturing and www.mchenry.edu/apprentice.