5 tips for government agencies who want to recruit students, recent grads for early career manufacturing jobs

In an effort to guide governmental agencies in recruiting the next generation of talent for the manufacturing sector, we’ve gathered insights from Presidents and CEOs. From engaging students at campus events to highlighting the growth and innovation potential within the industry, here are five valuable strategies for government agencies who want to attract college students, recent graduates, and others early in their careers.

• Engage Students at Campus Events
• Showcase Innovation and Tech
• Promote Training for New Skills
• Feature Testimonials from Graduates
• Highlight Growth and Innovation Potential

Engage Students at Campus Events

To attract students and recent grads, I’d advise focusing your recruiting on-campus career fairs and networking events. Students today value purpose and impact in their work. Highlight how jobs in manufacturing can provide that through producing essential goods, supporting local communities, and working with cutting-edge technology.

My company has had success partnering with engineering and business programs to mentor students and give them hands-on experience. We brought interns into project management roles and had them help implement new software. Two were hired full-time after graduating.

Manufacturing often gets a bad rap as dull or dying. Breakthrough outdated stereotypes by promoting rewarding, skilled jobs on your social media and website with employee spotlights and behind-the-scenes footage. Recent grads use sites like Glassdoor, so ensure your reviews highlight opportunities for career growth and learning.

Money still matters too. Manufacturing jobs often provide good pay and benefits. Emphasize compensation packages that reward performance to show top candidates the potential for career and financial advancement. Manufacturing needs fresh perspectives to thrive, so go the extra mile to attract students and recent grads. Your investment in the next generation will pay off.

Jean Magny, President, Genius Solutions

Showcase Innovation and Tech

One significant piece of advice I would give to a large governmental agency, from my experience in higher education and interfacing with students, is to actively showcase the innovation at the heart of modern manufacturing. The perception of manufacturing has traditionally been associated with monotonous assembly lines, when in fact, today’s manufacturing jobs are rooted in high-tech and digital skills.

For instance, government agencies can partner with educational institutions for interactive sessions demonstrating how immersive technologies like VR and 3D printing are integral to modern manufacturing. Engage students in manufacturing-based hackathons or innovation challenges to stir their interest and creativity. Providing internship opportunities and real-life project experiences can help students view manufacturing as an exciting field of opportunity.

Additionally, highlighting success stories of recent graduates who’ve made progress in the manufacturing field can also be a huge draw for potential entrants. In essence, it’s all about transforming outdated perceptions and demonstrating how modern manufacturing is a vibrant space of technology and innovation.

Rosario Maccarrone, Director & Head of Student Services, OPIT

Promote Training for New Skills

One piece of advice I’d give to a large governmental agency to draw in college students and recent graduates for manufacturing jobs is to focus on developing and promoting critical new skills necessary for the evolving field of manufacturing. Beyond just positioning themselves as attractive ’employers of choice’ amid a competitive talent landscape, it’s crucial for government agencies to tap into the fresh perspectives and skills of new graduates and early-career professionals. Specifically, roles like manufacturing data scientists and customer-experience specialists should be highlighted.

To effectively attract this demographic, the agency should emphasize training and career development opportunities that are tailored to these emerging roles. They could create specialized training programs that directly address the skills needed for data analysis and customer service in the manufacturing sector. By offering certifications or recognition in these areas, they would not only enhance their appeal but also equip potential employees with the tools they need for success.

Alex LaDouceur, Co-Founder, Webineering

Feature Testimonials from Graduates

The manufacturing industry really thrives on the people within it. In my opinion, professionals in this field are often tightly-knit because the nature of the work demands a lot of collaboration and social interaction. Governmental agencies need to really tap into this aspect!

One effective strategy is to feature testimonials from former graduate hires to attract manufacturing professionals to your government agency. When new graduates are scoping out potential employers, they’re eager to see how these organizations have engaged with recent graduates previously. By showcasing the experiences of past graduate hires, you give potential candidates a clearer picture of whether your agency might be the right fit for them.

I believe that featuring these testimonials on your careers page is a smart move. Additionally, allowing high-quality candidates to speak with former graduate hires during the interview process can be incredibly beneficial. It gives them a chance to ask questions and address any concerns directly with someone who has already been in their shoes.

Erin Hendricks, President and Owner, Sammy’s Milk

Highlight Growth and Innovation Potential

One of the most effective ways to attract college students and recent graduates to jobs in manufacturing is to emphasize the potential for innovation and growth in the industry.

Manufacturing is often perceived as an old-fashioned sector, but the reality is that it’s a field ripe with opportunities for creativity and technological advancement. From the development of new materials to the implementation of automated processes, there’s a lot of room for young minds to make a significant impact.

I would advise the agency to showcase these opportunities in their recruitment efforts. Highlight the cutting-edge technologies being used in the field, the potential for professional development, and the chance to be part of an industry that’s essential to our economy and society.

Also, consider partnering with educational institutions to offer internships, co-op programs, or even scholarships. This not only provides students with practical experience but also helps them see the value and potential in a career in manufacturing.

Remember, it’s not just about attracting talent – it’s about nurturing it and helping it grow. That’s how you build a workforce that’s not only skilled but also passionate about what they do. And in my experience, that’s the key to success in any industry.

Eli Itzhaki, CEO, Keyzoo