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1. What motivated your business to participate in the Cool Jobs Tour this year?
We joined the Cool Jobs Tour to connect with the community and show the next generation the meaningful careers available in manufacturing.
2. Can you explain the significance of your industry to the local community?
We keep the lights on. The switchgear we manufacture controls and distributes electricity and protects against faults that could cause damage or outages. Factories, hospitals, utilities, and data centers all depend on it. With increased demands from AI, cloud storage, and streaming, the speed and reliability of our gear is more important than ever.
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3. What do you hope participants take away from their visit? |
We want them to see that modern manufacturing is clean, creative, and full of opportunity. Careers range from engineering and design to sales, project management, and hands-on operations. We want students to walk away thinking,‘ I could see myself doing that.’
4. Can you describe any unique technologies or processes your company showcased?
We demonstrated our laser for precision metal cutting, which is fed through an automated system that selects and cuts sheets based on programmed requirements. We also showed how we build our electrical houses, which are 15-by-56-by-13
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feet and weigh over 50,000 pounds. The buildings are moved remotely and shipped to customers, with a goal of shipping one per day over the next four months.
5. What challenges does the manufacturing industry face today, and how is your company addressing them?
Attracting and developing skilled talent is a big challenge. We work with recruiting agencies, attend career fairs, and run a summer internship program for college students to gain hands-on manufacturing experience.
6. How do you envision the future of careers in your industry?
The future is bright. As technology evolves, manufacturing careers are becoming more technical
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and creative, with a high impact. Young people entering this field today will help shape how the world is built and powered tomorrow.
7. What role do collaborations with schools, cities, and chambers of commerce play?
Collaboration is essential. When schools, local government, and businesses work together, we can show students and parents that manufacturing offers real careers, growth opportunities, and a sense of purpose.
8. Can you share a memorable interaction from the event?
It was encouraging to see how engaged students and parents were. Many were excited to learn that there are viable career paths outside the
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traditional four-year college route.
9. What advice would you give to students considering a career in manufacturing?
Be curious, hands-on, and keep learning. Manufacturing isn’ t just about building things— it’ s about critical thinking, problem solving, and working as a team toward a shared goal.
10. What is the most rewarding aspect of working in your industry?
It’ s incredibly rewarding to know our work powers hospitals, keeps data flowing, and connects communities. The gear we produce combines innovation and teamwork to make a real-world impact.
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