Have you ever wondered what the inside of a manufacturing plant looks like? Most people don’t know what is produced in their own backyards unless they work for manufacturing companies. The Tour of Manufacturing aims to change this. Companies across the region are opening their doors on October 3 & 5 and inviting the public to see what they do.

“Even if 30% of the local population works in a manufacturing facility, it still means 70% of the population doesn’t know what it’s like,” says Ryan Vesey, Business Development Director at Greater Mankato Growth. “The Tour of Manufacturing invites people to learn what is made in their communities and where these materials or finished products go.”

Mark your calendar for the Tour of Manufacturing and learn why this event is so important for workforce development in the region.

The Tour of Manufacturing Showcases the Global Impact of South Central Minnesota

The Tour of Manufacturing brings students, employees’ families, and the general public to local facilities across the region. At its pre-pandemic peak, 24 different facilities participated in the event. This year, 15 manufacturing companies are opening their doors to showcase what they do.

“This event elevates the importance of manufacturing on a state-wide level,” says Vesey. “It allows companies to shout from the rooftops all of the great work they are doing.”

Vesey uses the example of a manufacturing plant that is contracted to produce generators for U.S. naval vessels. These generators control the launch systems on aircraft carriers. While most people might know that the company produces generators, they might not realize what an important role they play in American defense infrastructure and international affairs as a whole.

“Manufacturing allows a community to make an impact far beyond its borders,” says Vesey.

This Event Busts Myths About the Manufacturing Industry 

Another reason the Tour of Manufacturing is so important is that it challenges students and potential employees to rethink their views of manufacturing. Thursday (October 3), is usually allocated to school visits so students can learn about potential careers at these companies. Kids and teens complete worksheets and other activities that introduce them to manufacturing careers.

“Most people don’t realize the level of skill that people who work in manufacturing have,” says Vesey. “There are forklift drivers, engineers, and a wide array of fields and skill sets. There are a lot of good careers there.”

The Tour of Manufacturing also works to bust the myth that these facilities are dirty and unsafe. This event wants to showcase manufacturing plants in a positive light.

“The biggest misconception people have about manufacturing is that it’s dirty,” says Vesey. “There’s a mindset that it’s dark and dingy, but most manufacturing plants are bright and clean.”

Some companies combine this event with their friends and family days. They set aside special rooms for employees’ relatives to visit their loved ones and enjoy lunch together. Kids can see what their parents do for a living.

Attend as a Visitor to Learn About Local Manufacturing

You don’t have to be a student to attend the Tour of Manufacturing and learn what is produced in South Central Minnesota. You may find that your own misconceptions are busted by attending one of these tours. Greater Mankato Growth is proud to support this event. Manufacturing is a key part of the local economy and allows Minnesota to have a larger footprint in the world.

Photo credit: Josh G. Photography, courtesy of Industrial Fabrication Services.