This story was written by Nikki Sullivan, Director of Continual Improvement, General Kinematics.
I recently had the opportunity to work with I Make America to host a Pancakes & Policy for my company. Here at General Kinematics, we manufacture vibrating and rotary equipment for the foundry, mining, process, recycling, and wood processing industries. I was glad to bring I Make America to Crystal Lake, Illinois so that my coworkers can learn about the importance of engaging with our elected officials on issues that are impacting our industry.
From infrastructure to workforce development, we heard what I Make America is advocating for in Washington, D.C. I really appreciate the work they are doing to make people understand the wonders of manufacturing. Fabrication, welding, assembly, painting – I could go on about the many different roles and responsibilities in a manufacturing facility. And right now, our country is facing a skilled worker shortage. That means there aren’t enough people with the right skills to do specialized jobs, such as those in manufacturing.
I want people to remember that manufacturing has many great careers available, especially for young people who are deciding what they want to do after they graduate high school. For skilled manufacturing workers, the education required typically costs much less than a traditional four-year college degree. They can get a head start on life, jumping right in after their career and technical education, securing good-paying jobs that are available.
