Fast facts on manufacturing jobs:
- Over the next decade, 4.6 million manufacturing jobs will likely be needed.
- Manufacturing jobs have grown more high-tech and complex in recent years. People who enjoy innovation and can adapt quickly to new technology are a great fit for this industry called advanced manufacturing.
- Most manufacturing jobs require teamwork. Manufacturers need employees who can solve problems, interact well with others and understand how their work contributes to the larger effort.
Dig Deeper:
- Where Technology Meets Practicality: Check out this Worksource resource on manufacturing careers.
- Go on a virtual field trip of manufacturing sites.
- Discover a virtual city of career options including manufacturing and design here:
- Check out a visual map of manufacturing careers using the Cooper Standard Career Tree.
- Explore cutting edge technology involved in manufacturing pathways through this smart manufacturing comic book.
- Attend a Society of Women Engineers Next Event to learn more about engineering or sign up to be a student member.
- Share what you learned with your peers on social media by using the hashtag #PWAExpo2Go
Leading employers in manufacturing:
Greenbrier Gunderson: Leading international supplier of equipment and services to the freight rail transportation markets. Works with PWA to host tours for high school students.
The Boeing Company: World's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense, space and security systems, and service provider of aftermarket support. With corporate offices in Chicago, Boeing employs more than 153,000 people across the U.S. and in more than 65 countries.
Leading employers in transportation:
Daimler Trucks North America: Headquartered in Portland, Oregon. Strives to make a positive impact on global trucking.
Port of Portland: Encompases three airports, four marine terminals, and five business parks. Responsible for more than 27,000 local jobs and $1.8 billion in wages.
TriMet: Provides bus, light rail and commuter rail service in the Portland, Oregon, region. Aims to connect people with their community, while easing traffic congestion and reducing air pollution.
Leading employers in energy:
Bonneville Power Administration: Nonprofit federal power administration based in the Pacific Northwest. Promotes energy efficiency, renewable resources and new technologies.
NW Natural: Provides energy for 140 communities in Oregon and Southwest Washington.
Pacific Power: Energy company serving more than 773,000 customers in 243 communities across Oregon, Washington and California.
Portland General Electric: Power company in Oregon. Focused on delivering energy that is safe, clean, reliable, affordable and secure.
Leading college options in manufacturing, energy and transportation:
Portland Community College: Oregon’s largest postsecondary institution, with multiple locations. Programs in machine manufacturing, aviation, auto repair, engineering and more.
Mt. Hood Community College: Community college located in Gresham, Oregon offering more than 120 professional and technical programs. Programs in manufacturing, applied technologies and more.
Index of additional employers and postsecondary partners**:
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Association of Women in the Metals Industry (AWMI)
Precision Aviation Training, LLC
Clackamas Community College (manufacturing, automotive & welding)
** Recent participating exhibitors in NW Youth Careers Expo.