2015 Issue 10
Develop, Innovate, Prosper
Manufacturing Day Celebrated Across Oklahoma In celebration of Manufacturing Day 2015, Oklahoma companies will host more than 40 events around the state as part of an effort to change people’s perceptions about today’s manufacturing environment and draw attention to the outstanding opportunities a career in manufacturing can provide. Students, educators and parents can participate at the events at various local businesses, as well as some of the state’s training and education facilities such as the OSU Institute of Technology (OSUIT) in Okmulgee, Autry Technology Center in Enid and Francis Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma companies hosting events open to the public include Baker Hughes, Kimray Inc., Malarkey Roofing Products and others. Businesses face a shortage of skilled, educated workers to fill positions and many young people are unaware of the opportunities available to them in manufacturing. “One of the main challenges facing manufacturers today is a growing gap in skilled labor. To address this issue, more young
people must be inspired to pursue manufacturing careers,” said Mike Pierce, assistant dean of the OSUIT School of Engineering Technologies, which includes the Manufacturing Technologies program. “Having students participate in Manufacturing Day events is a wonderful opportunity to start this conversation and begin ensuring the future of manufacturing in the U.S.” One of the priorities of Governor Mary Fallin’s Oklahoma Works initiative is to close the skills gap, or difference between job requirements and the skills of available workers. Today’s manufacturing jobs increasingly depend on workers with an education beyond high school. In order for there to be a pipeline of talent available to Oklahoma’s manufacturing companies, it is important that young people who are
interested in pursuing manufacturing careers receive the necessary levels of education and training. Manufacturing Day is an annual national event executed at the local level supported by thousands of manufacturers as they host students, teachers, parents, job seekers and other local community members at open houses, plant tours and presentations designed to showcase modern manufacturing technology and careers. To see a list of all events this year visit mfgday.com and click the “Find an Event” tab. There you can also find information on how you can get involved in Manufacturing Day. Learn more about Oklahoma Works at: oklahomaworks.gov
Technology Company Selects Norman, Okla. for Expansion p. 3 Retail Spaces Begins to Fill at Cherokee Plaza in Tahlequah p. 5 The Oklahoma Road Show Program p. 5