Over 540 Henderson County Public Schools middle and high students will tour 15 different manufacturing operations today across Henderson County, in observance of National Manufacturing Week and Manufacturing Week in North Carolina. Students involved in Project Lead the Way and Career Technical Education courses were able to take part.

The primary purpose of the tours was to showcase the availability of advanced manufacturing careers in Henderson County. Over 15% of the local workforce is engaged in manufacturing with average annual wages surpassing $53,000. Manufacturing operations offer multiple career entry opportunities, enticing students who are ready to enter the workforce after graduation and those who want to further their education.

“It is an honor to host students for the Made in Henderson County tours. Having grown up here in Henderson County, I want students to know that there are good opportunities with good companies here in Henderson County. We hope to retain as much talent as possible in our community. These tours allow students to see how what they are learning in school is applied in the workforce,” shared participating manufacturer, Brent Coston of Elkamet.

Students were matched with a tour location based on their program of study. Tours showcased technology, products made and also the benefits of working in a manufacturing operation. “Many companies offer tuition reimbursement and ongoing training. These are high-tech jobs and we have to make sure students know about these opportunities here at home,” stated Adam Shealy, HCPED Board Chair.

Participating companies included: Alpha Tech, Cane Creek Cycling Components, Clement Pappas, Daystar Machining, Elkamet, GE Lighting Solutions, Kiln Drying Systems, MWW, Meritor, Multi Packaging Solutions, Ohlins, SELEE, SMARTRAC, Wilsonart and Wirtz Wire EDM.

Made in Henderson County is a coordinated effort established to enhance the connection between manufacturing businesses and Henderson County Public Schools, while telling the story of manufacturing, the products that are made here and the people who make them.  The initiative is focused on raising the visibility of manufacturing as a viable career path to ensure that Henderson County students have diverse employment opportunities in the community, and manufacturing businesses have access to skilled, local talent.  Visit www.madeinhendersoncounty.com for more information.