Workers in the manufacturing trades career cluster produce nearly all the products and equipment used in daily life. Manufacturing is the transformation of raw materials or parts into a new product. Unlike in many industries, new hires in manufacturing are commonly expected to learn the work on the job. Therefore, many occupations have minimal education requirements—typically a high school diploma or less—and new hires can also earn a technical certificate on the job. Apprenticeships are common in the manufacturing industry and offer wages while learning a skilled trade. Some of the occupations that may be entered through apprenticeship include CNC programmers, precision machinists, industrial maintenance repairers, mold makers, and tool and die makers.
cnc tool operators stock photo

CNC Tool Operators

Average Salary: $42,260

Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment.

electromechanical mechatronics technicians stock photo

Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians

Average Salary: $59,800

Operate, test, maintain, or adjust unmanned, automated, servomechanical, or electromechanical equipment. May operate unmanned submarines, aircraft, or other equipment to observe or record visual information at sites such as oil rigs, crop fields, buildings, or for similar infrastructure, deep ocean exploration, or hazardous waste removal.

gas plant operators stock photo

Gas Plant Operators

Average Salary: $72,970

Distribute or process gas for utility companies and others by controlling compressors to maintain specified pressures on main pipelines.

Industry Recognized Certificates/Credentials, Employability Skills, and Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) Applications

Industry Recognized Certificates/Credentials

Students have the potential to earn an industry recognized certificates and credentials through their experiences in our CTE programs. The following certificates and credentials could include the following:

Employability Skills

While enrolled in the Manufacturing Trades program, students will be expected to work on various employability skills that could be related to the industry recognized certificate/credentials listed above. See some examples of how students will work on these skills below:

  • Technical Skills
    In manufacturing, technical skills are vital for operating machinery, tools, and equipment. For instance, a machinist needs to be highly skilled in setting up and operating precision machines like lathes and milling machines to create accurate components for various products. These technical skills are also critical for troubleshooting and performing routine maintenance on equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure smooth production.
  • Attention to Detail and Quality Control
    Attention to detail is crucial to maintaining high product quality in manufacturing. Workers must inspect products at different stages of the production process to ensure they meet specifications and quality standards. For example, a quality control inspector in an automotive manufacturing plant examines each vehicle to verify that it meets safety and quality standards, identifying any defects or deviations from the required specifications.
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
    Manufacturing often involves working as part of a team to complete various tasks in the production process. Teamwork and collaboration are essential to ensure that all components come together seamlessly. For example, in an assembly line, workers must work together efficiently to assemble complex products like electronics or machinery. Effective communication and collaboration are critical to avoid errors and maintain productivity.

CTSO Applications

Students who enroll in a course within the Manufacturing Trades program have the opportunity to engage in in a CTSO. Below are some potential applications to a CTSO that student could be involved when participating in this CTE program:

  • SkillsUSA: Additive Manufacturing
    This contest utilizes both written and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants’ abilities and knowledge of the field.This contest embraces a range of materials and derivative processes building parts suitable for end-use service.
  • SkillsUSA: Automated Manufacturing Technology
    This contest utilizes both written and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants’ abilities and knowledge of the field. The contest evaluates teams for employment in integrated manufacturing technology fields such as CAD, CAM, and CNC.
  • SkillsUSA: Electronics Technology
    This contest utilizes both written and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants’ abilities and knowledge of the field. The contest includes customer service, soldering, breadboarding, troubleshooting, and a written exam. 

Which High Schools Offer this Program?

CTE Advisory Board

Lynn Weberg
Owner
Palmer Drivers Controls

Mike Robinson
Director of Digital Innovation
Motion & Flow Control Products, Inc.

Doug Edasi
Chief Financial Officer
Novo Organization

Mike Shallenberger
Pathways Developer
Legacy Campus

Chris Raschke
Management
Fluid Power Sales & Operations