Manufacturing Month at CLC builds connections between students and industry

College of Lake County (CLC) wrapped up a successful Manufacturing Month filled with energy, exploration and opportunity. Throughout October, students, educators and local employers came together to celebrate innovation and learn how manufacturing continues to power Lake County’s economy.

Over the course of seven events, hundreds of participants explored topics ranging from global supply chains to local career pathways. Each program highlighted how education and industry are working together to close skills gaps and prepare the next generation of manufacturing talent.

Engaging events across campuses

The month kicked off with the Latinx in Manufacturing Pop-Up at the Lakeshore Campus, which invited community members to connect with Latinx professionals and discover hands-on learning opportunities.

At the discussion of the book “Apple in China,” attendees heard about the intersection of technology, design and large-scale manufacturing.

"Great interview with Patrick McGee, author of ‘Apple in China’ and ‘Financial Times’ reporter,” President of Crestwood Industries Des Paden said. “McGee’s book and conversation described how China isn’t just manufacturing products – they’re manufacturing strategy.”

Degree Discovery Day offered students and potential students the opportunity to explore CLC’s programs that lead to manufacturing careers.

CLC’s Apprenticeship Awareness Program provided high school students and their parents with hands-on experiences in key manufacturing fields while showcasing related apprenticeship opportunities and career pathways. Six sessions were offered highlighting industrial technology; precision machining technology (PMT); CAD-drafting technology; HVAC/R technology; automation, robotics and mechatronics and a visit to LMT Onsrud.

Later in the month, a Women in Manufacturing panel spotlighted the experiences of women advancing in the field, offering practical advice and encouragement for newcomers.

Panelists included employers, faculty and apprenticeship students. Abby Hauschild, CLC student and PMT Apprentice at LMT Onsrud, gave advice to students considering a career in manufacturing.

"Reach out as much as possible,” Hauschild said. “Getting out there, meeting people, going to career fairs, talking to people. Utilizing those career fairs and opportunities given to you throughout high school."

The Manufacturing Career and Internship Fair connected students with employers ready to hire and train the next generation of skilled workers.

"The Manufacturing Job Fair was a great opportunity to connect with student talent,” Coilcraft Human Resources Marcela Lopez said. “We had a great experience engaging with attendees and are in the process of making an offer to one standout student – this role will help them build new skills while contributing meaningfully to our team. Events like this help bridge the gap between education and industry in a meaningful way.”

Engineering Night closed the month with demonstrations and presentations showcasing the technology and creativity behind modern production.

Continuing the Momentum

Organizers said Manufacturing Month underscored CLC’s long-term commitment to workforce partnerships and hands-on education. The college plans to build on the momentum by expanding internships and apprenticeships and continuing to align training with employer needs.

CLC’s Manufacturing Month may have ended, but its message continues: with collaboration, curiosity and community engagement, Lake County’s manufacturing future is bright.