October marks New York State’s official celebration of Manufacturing Month. To celebrate this momentous month, MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, together with its affiliate, Partners for Education & Business, Inc. (PEB), has partnered with 15 local manufacturers to host facility tours for students and educators from across the region. Throughout October, more than 450+ students from 11 school districts in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley will gain a first-hand look at modern manufacturing, exploring career opportunities as the next generation of makers, problem-solvers, and innovators.

The mission of Manufacturing Month is to showcase real-world examples of high-tech, high-demand manufacturing careers that fuel local economies. By connecting students to employers, the initiative inspires future creators while highlighting how manufacturers are working together to address shared workforce challenges and build thriving communities.

“Manufacturing Month is about inspiring the next generation and showing them the exciting, meaningful careers available right here in New York. By opening their doors, manufacturers are not only highlighting advanced technologies and innovation, but also their vital role in building strong communities. We’re proud to partner with educators and industry leaders to create pathways for students to join this dynamic and growing sector,” shared Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY.

To kick off the statewide celebration, groups toured innovative facilities such as Gardall Safe Corporation; Golden Artist Colors; TTM Technologies; INFICON; Belden; Byrne; Eaton; JPW Structural Contracting, Inc.; Morse Manufacturing; Haun Welding Supply & Specialty Gases; OCWA – Central New York’s Water Authority; and Ralph W. Earl.

During the tours, students gained firsthand exposure to the diverse world of modern manufacturing. They observed advanced technologies in action, from precision metalwork and large-scale fabrication to high-tech electronics, specialty products, and critical infrastructure. Students also explored how education and workforce training connect directly to industry needs. Throughout the visits, they met with employees, asked questions about career paths, and experienced demonstrations that highlighted the creativity and collaboration at the heart of today’s manufacturing careers.

As the Presenting Sponsor of MACNY’s Manufacturing Month, BuildSubmarines.com reinforces this critical exposure by serving as a national hub that connects job seekers with training programs and career opportunities in submarine manufacturing and maintenance — showcasing how specialized industries are building the workforce of the future. Other companies, including Mohawk Valley Community College, Worthington Steel, and Indium Corporation, will host tours later this month, extending opportunities for even more students to connect directly with local industries.

“These tours give students the unique opportunity to see modern manufacturing in action — from the equipment and processes to the people who make it all possible. For many, it’s their first time stepping inside a facility and envisioning themselves in a future career. Manufacturing Month allows us to connect education with industry in powerful ways, helping young people explore career options while strengthening our region’s workforce pipeline,” highlighted Emily Langan, Manager of PEB.

Building on these immersive student experiences, MACNY, in partnership with United Way of Central New York, will also host MFG Connects: Your Community this week at Anheuser-Busch’s Tasting Room. The event will bring together manufacturers, community partners, and industry leaders to highlight manufacturing’s vital role in workforce development and showcase the strength of community collaboration across the region.

“From our beginning in 1917, United Way of Central New York has benefitted from the ardent support of local manufacturers,” said Meghann Sandak, Chief Development Officer for United Way of Central New York. “We are excited to work with MACNY, and grateful for the support of Anheuser-Busch, to gather and celebrate the essential role of manufacturers in supporting our thriving community.”

“MACNY’s celebration of Manufacturing Month is a reminder that collaboration can shape the future of our region’s workforce,” said Scott Walker, VP of Operations for INFICON, Inc. “INFICON is proud to show students and teachers that today’s manufacturing is driven by innovation, precision, and advanced technology. Our cleanrooms are high-tech and dynamic; it’s exactly the kind of exposure that can spark interest in a manufacturing career.”

To learn more about Manufacturing Month, visit: www.macny.org/manufacturing-month.