ACTE recently updated its Sector Sheet on CTE’s role in developing the workforce in advanced manufacturing with the latest information on labor market demand, the role CTE plays in preparing the workforce for this sector, and profiles of exemplary programs.
Currently, manufacturing is facing a growing skills gap as employers report needing more workers with technical skills who are interested in learning new technologies. About 4 million manufacturing jobs will be open through 2030; however, more than 2 million of these jobs are expected to go unfilled. The advanced manufacturing sectors with strong growth prospects include pharmaceuticals, electronics and aerospace.
CTE programs are taking the lead in developing the advanced manufacturing workforce. For instance, at Kaukauna High School in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, manufacturing students prepare for high-quality, in-demand careers in the area’s chemical manufacturing facilities through hands-on experiences in machine programming, welding and fabrication, 3D programming and more; rigorous academic coursework; and early postsecondary credit opportunities. On the postsecondary level, the Automotive Manufacturing Technical Education Collaborative is a collaboration between a group of multi-state community and technical colleges and industry partners to better prepare highly skilled mechatronics technicians to work in advanced manufacturing sectors. Postsecondary learners can choose between many career pathways such as Mechanical Engineering Technician, Robotics Automation Technologist and Fluid Power Mechanic.
ACTE’s Sector Sheet series is generously supported by Pearson.
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