Brooklyn Park, MN – July 19, 2024 – The Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association (MPMA), in association with the Minnesota State Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence, is excited to promote the Minnesota Manufactured campaign. The initiative focuses on raising awareness and inspiring the next generation to pursue rewarding careers in manufacturing.
Supported by an $800,000 Drive for Five grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the campaign focuses on outreach, recruitment, and retention strategies to expand the pool of qualified candidates. The funding will help connect employers and students with training programs and other educational opportunities throughout Minnesota.
In addition to engaging thousands within the community, the initiative aims to serve two hundred participants and upwards of fifty employers through job placement, diversity, inclusion, and retention services, enhancing the manufacturing talent pool for long-term success.
“The value of this initiative lies in our partnerships,” said Steve Kalina, President/CEO of MPMA. “We are excited to connect people with the many opportunities available in manufacturing.”
The campaign employs a comprehensive outreach strategy using banners, print media, digital marketing, and events, including an interactive booth at the Minnesota State Fair from August 22 to September 2, 2024. Attendees can engage with a 3D printer and virtual reality experiences that highlight the future of manufacturing.
For more details about the Minnesota Manufactured campaign, visit futureinmanufacturing.mnmfg.org or stop by the MN Manufactured booth in the Education Building at the fair.
About MPMA The Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association (MPMA) is a 501(c)(6) trade association with over three hundred members dedicated to developing and strengthening Minnesota’s skilled manufacturing workforce by providing resources, education, and advocacy. For over 68 years, MPMA has been the go-to resource for workforce development in the manufacturing industry.
About the Minnesota State Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence
Minnesota State Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence is one of eight Centers of Excellence throughout Minnesota State, the state college and university system that was developed to serve the needs of industry through education and outreach. The Center is located at Bemidji State University in Bemidji, MN and is an innovative, collaborative effort between education and industry to recruit, educate and train workers for dynamic careers in advanced manufacturing. The Center collaborates with industry, education, and workforce development partners to foster innovation, enhance skills, and establish career pathways in advanced manufacturing.
For inquiries, contact:
Steve Kalina, President/CEO
Steve@MPMA.com
Jeremy Leffelman
Jeremy.leffelman@minnstate.edu
