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In an effort to address a projected shortage of engineers and qualified technicians, the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has organized facility tours for students to promote the good paying jobs available in manufacturing. The average wage for the region is $106,000 a year, one of the highest in the country for manufacturing and a testament to the advanced nature of the products being made in the region. Seven manufacturers are opening their facilities for tours to local STEM students from AISD and RRISD. The participating companies are Samsung, BuildASign.com, Wayne Fueling, Michael Angelo Foods, Dynamic Manufacturing Solutions, Cypress Industries, and Athena Manufacturing. Students will get a first-hand account of advanced manufacturing tools and techniques as well as learn more about the potential career paths that are available within industry.

“Some of the most advanced facilities in the world are right here in Central Texas. ARMA wants to make sure that when students enter the workforce they know about the exciting opportunities awaiting them in electronics, medical device, life science, and the food & beverage sectors. Most people don’t think of the region as a manufacturing strong hold, but nearly one third of the major employers in Austin are manufacturers and the sector is the leading contributor to the area’s metropolitan product. Having the workforce to support them is critical to the region’s economic success,” said Ed Latson, Executive Director for ARMA.

“Samsung is happy to participate with ARMA in celebrating Manufacturing Day. It is an opportunity for us to demonstrate the products and processes in our fab, as well as, embrace the school system and foster interest in the STEM fields,” said Catherine Morse, General Counsel and Director of Public Affairs for Samsung Austin Semiconductor, LLC .

“Our team is thrilled to participate in Manufacturing Day 2016 and to help highlight the outstanding manufacturers we have here in Austin,” said Joe Licata, COO at BuildASign. “People don’t necessarily think about Austin as a manufacturing hub, but there are a lot of great manufacturers and well-paid manufacturing job opportunities. We’re a city that makes things, and the sector is definitely growing.”

ARMA is coordinating the event in conjunction with a nationwide effort organized by the National Association of Manufacturers. Further recognition is being provided by the City Council which is issuing a proclamation declaring October 7, officially Manufacturing Day in Austin.

ARMA is a non-profit trade association focused on strengthening the manufacturing community through advocacy, workforce development, and networking. Manufacturers account for 1,500 companies in the area, employee 57,000 people, and contribute over $11 billion to the regional economy.