By: Amanda Beaulieu

The CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow stopped at Dodd Stadium in Norwich on Thursday, September 26, welcoming students, educators, and manufacturers for a morning of career exploration.

Over 700 area students in grades 7-12 had the opportunity to connect with dozens of local manufacturers from across eastern Connecticut.

From robotics and submarine construction to 3D printing and CNC machining, students could explore the wide variety of exciting careers available in Connecticut’s manufacturing industry.

Companies offered hands-on activities at different innovation stations where students built miniature windmills, learned how to construct safety netting, and even tested laser technology.

Students participated in a scavenger hunt for prizes that guided them to interactions with different manufacturers.

Virtual reality headsets provided career simulation experiences helping spark excitement for the next generation of manufacturers.

According to ReadyCT, the CT Manufacturing Careers Roadshow Series is designed to raise awareness and pique interest in the broad opportunities and well-paying, interesting, and modern careers available in Connecticut manufacturing.

CONNSTEP affiliate ReadyCT partnered with the GNACC Education and Workforce Development Committee,  Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board, Eastern Advanced Manufacturing Alliance, and Greater Norwich Chamber of Commerce for the Roadshow event. CONNSTEP was a proud sponsor.

There is one more stop on the 2024 Roadshow calendar. On October 31, ACM’s Aerospace Alley Future Workforce Opportunities Fair will be held at the Connecticut Convention Center. Over 90 local aerospace firms will be on hand to engage students about the incredible opportunities available in the aerospace industry.