Danbury High School Students Explore Exciting Careers in Manufacturing at Innovative Event

Danbury, CT – May 19, 2023 – On Thursday, May 18, 2023, ReadyCT partnered with the Northwest Manufacturing Regional Sector Partnership (RSP) of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), along with the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce, and hosted a groundbreaking event aimed at introducing local high school and middle school students to the diverse and rewarding career opportunities available in the manufacturing industry. The event, titled “CT Manufacturing Roadshow 23: Making Future Makers” brought together industry leaders, educators, and enthusiastic students for an engaging and eye-opening experience.

The event, held at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, CT, showcased the significance of manufacturing in our community and its contribution to economic growth and technological advancement. With an emphasis on hands-on learning and interactive demonstrations, students were given a unique chance to explore various manufacturing sectors, inspiring them to consider manufacturing as a viable and fulfilling career path.

Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to interact with professionals from different manufacturing disciplines, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, robotics, and advanced materials. Local manufacturing companies generously shared their time and experiences, providing captivating exhibits and sharing real-world insights into their operations. The students were able to witness cutting-edge technologies in action, experiencing firsthand the innovation and precision that drives the industry forward.

The NW Manufacturing RSP and ReadyCT also hosted a career expo in the form of an interactive and immersive virtual reality experience that allowed students to undergo manufacturing training simulations using virtual reality goggles. The activity was extremely popular amongst the students and proved to be an effective and innovative way to pique student interest.

“It is again our pleasure to have the Northwest Manufacturing Regional Sector Partnership partner with entities to provide a quality experience to introduce manufacturing career pathways to our youth,” said Cathy Awwad, President & CEO of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board.

“We’re thrilled to be involved in this collaboration,” said Shannon Marimón, executive director at ReadyCT, the organization leading roadshow event production across the state. “If anyone was listening in on the conversations between manufacturers and students during the event, they would’ve heard how exciting manufacturing jobs are and how curious students are about them.”

The Danbury event was the third roadshow production this year, with the two previous roadshows being held in Hamden and Bridgeport. This series of roadshows is part of an industry-led effort through the manufacturing regional sector partnerships, with support from ReadyCT, to raise awareness and create excitement around the broad career opportunities available in manufacturing.

The event featured engaging presentations from industry experts, highlighting the evolving landscape of manufacturing and the exciting opportunities it presents. These presentations focused on the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and the skills required for successful careers in manufacturing. Students were encouraged to develop their technical and problem-solving abilities, fostering a mindset of creativity and innovation.

Connecticut Chief Manufacturing Officer Paul Lavoie, a lead supporter of the Roadshow series, has attended every Roadshow event this year. “These roadshows really make manufacturing relevant for students,” Lavoie said.

As Connecticut manufacturers continue to offer high-growth career opportunities in the industry, Lavoie remains confident that manufacturing career exposure is a key piece of building that workforce.

“There’s just no substitute for seeing and handling the great things we make right here in Connecticut, and learning directly from manufacturers how technology is really driving the industry,” he added.

The Northwest Manufacturing Regional Sector Partnership extends its gratitude to all the participating companies, educational partners, volunteers, and sponsors whose support made this event possible. Their commitment to inspiring the next generation of manufacturers is instrumental in shaping the future of our community.

For more information about future events or inquiries, please contact Deb Presbie, 860-244-1009, deb.presbie@readyct.org.

For pictures and video of the event, visit nrwib.org/media-gallery.