Michigan Manufacturing Week
Plant Tour Program

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Students tour American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. during the 2004 program.

A Junior Achievement study of 1,500 middle- and high-school students across the U.S. found that only a handful were considering careers in the manufacturing industry. Clearly, industry has room to improve in exposing students, parents and educators to the well-paying career opportunities available in manufacturing. Perceptions of industry are often mired in old, “rust-belt” stereotypes, and the new manufacturing reality of innovation, global competition and high-technology processes has not been expressed effectively to the next generation of workers.

MMA invites member companies to play a part in solving this perception gap by participating in the MMA Plant Tour Program. Manufacturing companies conduct informative tours — generally lasting between one and three hours — of their facilities for local school students, parents, educators and counselors. The tour program provides a valuable opportunity for visitors to learn about local manufacturing companies and the jobs they provide, first-hand. Some program participants also choose to host elected officials and media representatives to increase awareness of the particular issues and concerns their companies face.

Though traditionally held in conjunction with Michigan Manufacturing Week, MMA encourages members to participate in the Plant Tour Program at other times during the year at the convenience of the company.

For more information review the MMA Plant Tour Guide [pdf file] or contact MMA’s Kellie Garrett, at 800-253-9039 ext. 555 or 517-487-8555. MMA will help match your company with interested schools in the area.

For information on public tours of Michigan manufacturing plants see Public Manufacturing Plant Tours and Attractions.