By Autumn Allen | Bradley County High School

Earlier this month, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee kicked off Manufacturing Day at Volkswagen of Chattanooga. Lee discussed how manufacturing in Tennessee has grown in the last few years and how it will only continue to grow in the future. Tennessee has many manufacturing companies like Mueller, Volkswagen and Hardwick Clothes that have helped the state grow its manufacturing industry.

Lee and other speakers noted how the need for future workers in the field is growing rapidly, yet younger generations are not as informed about the opportunities within the manufacturing industry, leading them to choose different career paths. Manufacturing careers the speakers discussed include processes engineering as well as technology production. Processes engineering involves turning raw materials in products, while technology engineering helps solve technical problems and also positions technical equipment. These are just a few of the options you have when choosing a career in manufacturing.

Additionally, the speakers highlighted many other companies throughout the state also hosting Manufacturing Day kickoff events, including Nissan and the University of Tennessee’s Center for Industrial Services. Lee explained the reason for these events is to inform local youth on the many options available when choosing a career in manufacturing.

The speakers concluded by sharing the results from a survey involving students who attended a previous manufacturing kickoff, which showed that once students are informed on the different manufacturing career options, they are more likely to pursue a career in the manufacturing field. The kickoff at Volkswagen, along with the other Manufacturing Day events across the state, were filled with important knowledge and information for the younger Tennessee population to learn. They are the future of manufacturing in Tennessee.