Just how much of an impact is Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) having on students’ perceptions of manufacturing? Cumulatively, the effects over the years have been quite substantial — and continue to trend upward.

The latest study by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute on MFG Day’s effects on student perceptions of manufacturing found:

• 84 percent of students who attended MFG Day events emerged “more convinced that manufacturing provides careers that are interesting and rewarding.”
• 71 percent of student attendees said that they “were more likely to tell friends, family, parents, or colleagues about manufacturing after attending an event,” meaning that they weren’t just convinced — they were inspired.
• 64 percent of surveyed student event participants said that they “were more motivated to pursue a career in manufacturing.”

Based on a projected 267,607 student attendance figure, that’s:

• 224,290 students with a better perception of manufacturing careers
• 190,001 students talking to friends and family about manufacturing
• 171,268 students thinking about joining the manufacturing team

While that’s not enough to close the projected gap of 2 million unfilled positions manufacturers in the U.S. will be faced with in 2025, it’s a strong start. By having an MFG Day every year — and continuing to increase participation across the U.S. — we can inspire a whole new generation of manufacturers.

Read more about how much MFG Day is moving the needle on student perceptions of manufacturing by visiting the mfgday.com blog. And make sure to host or attend an event this October 5. Don’t miss out on your chance to be a part of this success story!