Missouri Manufacturing Academy builds awareness of career opportunities
In Missouri, manufacturers produce everything from state-of-the-art fighter jets to the powder that is found on Frosted Flakes cereal. The manufacturing sector employs more than 300,000 people in the state with an average annual salary of more than $67,000.
Missouri manufacturing facilities, however, have reported challenges in hiring and retaining employees. To help fill this workforce gap — and educate people on the importance of manufacturing — Extension personnel at the University of Missouri organized the Missouri Manufacturing Academy.
A six-week after-school program aimed at middle school students, the academy was piloted in 2023 at six sites in six counties. It opened participants’ eyes to the wide variety of career opportunities available in manufacturing as well as the impact these facilities have on local economies. Highlights of the academy included tours of manufacturers and college campuses to showcase advanced, 21st-century manufacturing technologies and career pathways.
“I can see myself learning to use different skills of manufacturing and using in my daily life,” one sixth-grade participant reported. After-school program coordinators said the academy sparked new relationships and opportunities for collaboration with employers in their areas.
View the full statement on the NIDB.
Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) and State Appropriations funds.
