Manufacturers & Educators Working Together: October Updates

We’re working together to help students explore the exciting careers available in West Virginia’s manufacturing industry.

NEW THIS FALL

The Explore team is extremely excited to introduce the Manufacturing Innovation Challenge to West Virginia.  Using problem-solving skills, high school teams work to solve a real-world challenge issued by a regional manufacturer. 

The challenge provides benefits for both manufacturers and students.

Manufacturers:

• Gain a fresh perspective that often results in innovative ideas to help companies find new ways to tackle difficult manufacturing or technology challenges.   
• Participation provides a greater connection with local schools creating a talent pipeline of students entering the workforce.   
• The Manufacturing Innovation Challenge will be promoted within the community to encourage more students to consider manufacturing career paths and partner companies as a future employer.  

Students:

• The experience illustrates how skill development can enhance career opportunities and potential.
• The hands-on task to design and build a product or re-engineer an existing product, process, or system serves as an ideal activity to engage students in workforce ideas and experiences.  
• The challenge generates excitement about career opportunities in manufacturing, welding, electrical or other technology in West Virginia. 
• Projects will align with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) standards, curriculum, project-based learning efforts, and career exploration programs.

We are looking for manufacturers and high school classes, especially Career and Technical Education classes, for our first round of challenges. 

To take part, send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  A limited number of slots are available.

EXCITING MANUFACTURER SHOWCASE

There is still time to participate!  With school field trips on hiatus, the Explore Program is taking to the internet to help students and teachers continue exploring manufacturing career pathways available in West Virginia.

Check the Explore website for more information. 

DIRECTOR’S NOTES:  Manufacturing Workforce Continuum: Building a Pipeline for Tomorrow's Workers