SCIA and Fletcher Celebrate Manufacturing Careers During National Manufacturing Week

SCIA and Fletcher Celebrate Manufacturing Careers During National Manufacturing Week

Houma, LA — 10/16/24— In celebration of National Manufacturing Week, the South Central Industrial Association (SCIA) partnered with Fletcher Technical Community College to host an inspiring event for local students interested in STEM careers. Throughout the week of October 7-11, 2024, 166 junior and senior students from Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes were invited to tour five prominent manufacturing facilities in the region: John Deere Thibodaux, K&B Industries, Hunting Energy Services, Sealevel Construction, and Bollinger Shipyards.

The day began with an orientation where students learned about the companies’ operations and the products they manufacture. Following the orientation, students were divided into smaller groups for guided tours of the facilities. Throughout the tours, students witnessed employees in action, heard personal success stories, and explored a wide range of career paths from administrative roles to production positions.

“Our mission at SCIA is to advocate for and create opportunities for industry in the Bayou Region,” said Hillary Charpentier, Executive Director of SCIA. “By connecting students with local manufacturing leaders, we aim to inspire the next generation to explore fulfilling careers in STEM and manufacturing.”

During the tours, students were treated to a complimentary lunch, generously provided by the participating employers. This event not only highlighted the diverse career opportunities available in manufacturing but also reinforced the importance of technical education as a pathway to success.

Fletcher Technical Community College has played a crucial role in educating students about the myriad of technical opportunities in our region. “We are proud to partner with SCIA to promote manufacturing careers to our youth,” said Janel Ricca, Director of Job Placement, Fletcher. “Events like this show students the real-world applications of their studies and the potential careers awaiting them.”

SCIA, representing over 11,000 manufacturing jobs in the Bayou Region, has a long-standing commitment to improving the business climate and workforce development through initiatives like Work It! Louisiana. This acclaimed program educates students from grades 6 to 12 about career paths in industrial-based jobs, making significant strides in workforce readiness in Terrebonne, Lafourche, Assumption, and St. Mary parishes.

The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Capital One, Fletcher Technical Community College, and SCIA, underscoring the collaborative efforts to celebrate National Manufacturing Week and empower local students.

For more information about SCIA or Fletcher Technical Community College, please visit sciaonline.net/ or fletcher.edu

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