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w w w.in s i g h t o n m f g . c o m September 2015 • /INSIGHT ON MANUFACTURING | 35 as a viable career full of design and detail. • Educate parents about return- on-investment when looking at a four- year education vs. a two-year path and the different career options these skill sets present for their children, like: working in aviation as design finishers, commercial construction, sales, procurement, product management, marketing and more. ese career path options complement an industry with core expertise in customized CNC programming and operation on equipment that is digital, clean and safer than ever. • Cross-partner more with residential construction and construction management training programs to highlight the role that wood manufacturing can play in those sectors. ese suggestions and others capture a new sense of urgency in meeting the needs of an industry that is ready to come out of perceptual hibernation. Lastly, the industry reps passionately shared how the field truly infuses a form of art into the manufacturing sector. at is a fresh angle for the industry — one that is slowly integrating its value into more work sectors. With woodworking comes design, and with design comes some sort of artistic expression. Here is a great opportunity to tap diverse skill sets as well. In addition to the aforementioned plan of action, combining fine art skills into the cra of advanced manufacturing will only broaden the talent pool for this industry. A century ago, art was introduced into manufacturing as a way to soen its hard appeal and attract new workers. It still applies today: A graduate can work at a place like Gulfstream on wood paneling inside aircra, bringing a sense of artistic design to air travelers and supporting a company's visual brand. As a society we're going against the grain when it comes to career readiness. Prestige and popularity influence the decision-makers — parents — who are involved in selecting a college or university. Let's set our sights on exploring the world of hands-on careers and a little sniff of Douglas fir regarding career exploration and workforce development. F Chris Jossart is a public relations management professional with 22 years of experience in the nonprofit, corporate and education fields, including 14 years of instructional experience in higher education. He is the manager of media relations for Fox Valley Technical College. Where engineering, informa on technology and business intersect to provide crea ve solu ons for manufacturing automa on. Our customized process control solutions for manufacturers keep plants online and efficient. We only do one thing: innovative process technology from engineers experienced in integrating control platforms. Your complex problems become our challenge— and our solutions. WE'RE CONTROL FREAKS FOR COMPLETE PRODUCT AND SERVICE INFORMATION, VISIT TRIDENTAUTOMATION.COM OR CALL 920.759.7477 24/7 SUPPORT