Job opportunities will be plentiful in Oregon’s manufacturing sector, as the workforce ages and the industry grows. The NW Youth Careers Expo is a great place for students and teachers to learn about the skills and education that can lead to higher-paying career paths within fields such as metals, machinery, green technology and transportation.
Our manufacturing exhibitors include Gunderson, one of the Expo’s first and most formative participants. Gunderson’s welding booth — where students can get a taste of the real thing — is always a very popular exhibit.
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TEACHERS: FIND PRINTABLE FLYERS ON MANUFACTURING AND OTHER SECTORS
Here’s a sampler of some of our other leading manufacturing exhibitors.
Port of Portland: The Port of Portland oversees several marine terminals and airports, including the Portland International Airport, and it manages a number of industrial parks. The Port will have a large presence at the Expo and feature careers in emergency operations, security and other career fields.
PCC Structurals: PCC Structurals in Portland is considered a world leader in metal casting for jet engines, gas turbines, military equipment and many other uses.
Vigor: Vigor Industrial is a major shipbuilder that also repairs and modernizes vessels. It has several locations in the Pacific Northwest, including one on Swan Island in North Portland. Vigor merged with Oregon Iron Works in 2014.
Blount: Blount International makes saw chains and other equipment used in construction and forestry.
Students can check out SolarWorld, which has operations in Hillsboro and manufactures cutting-edge photovoltaic products for the global market. Look for A-Dec, the Newberg-based company considered one of the world’s largest manufacturers of dental equipment and furniture. Also watch for Madden Industrial Craftsmen, which helps connect skilled workers to great jobs; and Mt. Hood Community College‘s applied technology program, which offers training for a range of jobs.
Aviation: Our aviation exhibitors include The Boeing Company and the Hillsboro Aero Academy, a helicopter and airplane flight school (they’re bringing a helicopter).
Transportation and auto repair: TriMet and the Oregon Trucking Association will be there in force. Portland Community College will feature its offerings in auto repair, auto service and dealer service, and Clark College will also showcase its automotive & diesel program.
We’ll be adding more details about exhibitors as we receive them. (Exhibitors may contact us at susan@portlandworkforcealliance.org if you have additional information to share with students and educators prior to the Expo.)
So far, more than 6,500 students and 140+ exhibitors have registered for the Expo. Check out our “Meet our Exhibitors” page for additional printable flyers in technology, manufacturing, construction and creative careers. You can also visit our Expo HQ.
TEACHERS: BROWSE ALL EXPO RESOURCES FOR TEACHERS HERE
The nonprofit Portland Workforce Alliance works year-round with businesses in every sector to provide career-learning opportunities for high school students. Research shows that students who have the opportunity to learn about careers while they are in high school are more likely to graduate, continue their education and find satisfying careers. To learn more, browse our website.
