Manufacturing

The Manufacturing cluster is all about transforming raw materials, such as metal, plastic, and wood, into the products we use every day. This includes everything from the cars we drive to the smartphones we use to the furniture in our homes.

People in this field work in many different places. Some operate huge machines that cut and shape metal parts for airplanes. Others work on assembly lines putting together electronics or automobiles. Some design and program robots that build products automatically. Others test products to make sure they're safe and work properly before they're sold to customers.

Why This Field Is Growing:

Companies are bringing manufacturing jobs back to America from other countries
New technologies like 3D printing are creating entirely new ways to make things
Electric cars and renewable energy equipment need specialized manufacturing
Advanced materials like carbon fiber and plastics require skilled workers
Automation and robotics need technicians to program and maintain them

Cool Technology in Manufacturing:

3D printers that can create complex parts layer by layer from digital designs
Robots that can assemble products faster and more precisely than humans
Laser cutters that can slice through metal with incredible accuracy
Computer programs that design products and test them virtually before building
Smart sensors that monitor machines and predict when they need maintenance
Augmented reality glasses that show workers step-by-step assembly instructions
Automated guided vehicles that move materials around factories without drivers
Quality control cameras that can spot defects more minor than a human hair

In Virginia alone, this field employs over 230,000 people! Jobs for industrial machinery mechanics, quality control inspectors, and manufacturing technicians are expected to grow steadily in the coming years.

Engineering

Trainer in Manufacturing

Mechatronics Technicians

Machinist

What They Do: Machinists are like precision artists who use high-tech machines to cut, shape, and form metal and other materials into exact parts. They might make components for jet engines, medical devices, or space shuttles!

Daily Tasks:

Read blueprints and technical drawings to understand what to make
Set up and operate computer-controlled machines like lathes and milling machines
Measure parts with extremely precise tools to ensure perfect accuracy
Program computer systems that control cutting and shaping machines
Choose the right cutting tools and materials for each job
Inspect finished parts to make sure they meet exact specifications
Maintain and repair manufacturing equipment
Work with engineers to solve production problems

What's Cool About This Job: You get to create precision parts that might end up in spacecraft, race cars, or life-saving medical equipment. Every piece you make has to be perfect, and you use some of the most advanced technology in the world!

Quality Control Inspector

What They Do: Quality control inspectors are like product detectives who make sure everything that leaves a factory is safe, functional, and meets high standards. They're the last line of defense before products reach customers.

Daily Tasks:

Test products to make sure they work properly and safely
Use special measuring tools to check if parts are the right size
Look for defects, scratches, or other problems in finished products
Document any issues they find and work with teams to fix problems
Follow detailed checklists and safety procedures
Use computers to track quality data and create reports
Train other workers on quality standards
Work with engineers to improve manufacturing processes

What's Cool About This Job: You're like a guardian who protects customers by making sure they only get high-quality, safe products. Your careful work helps companies build great reputations!

Industrial Maintenance Technician

What They Do: Industrial maintenance technicians are like doctors for machines - they keep manufacturing equipment running smoothly and fix things when they break. Without them, factories would grind to a halt!

Daily Tasks:

Perform regular maintenance on manufacturing equipment
Troubleshoot problems when machines break down
Replace worn parts and upgrade equipment
Read technical manuals and wiring diagrams
Use tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes to diagnose electrical problems
Install new machinery and equipment
Keep detailed records of maintenance and repairs
Work with production teams to minimize downtime

What's Cool About This Job: You're the hero who keeps million-dollar machines running and prevents costly breakdowns. You get to work with cutting-edge technology and solve complex mechanical puzzles every day!

Start in Middle School:

Take math, science, and technology classes
Join robotics clubs or maker spaces
Learn about different materials and how things are made
Try the Virginia Education Wizard career assessment
Visit local manufacturing facilities or maker fairs
Practice using basic tools safely

Continue in High School:

Join SkillsUSA or Technology Student Association (TSA)
Take manufacturing, engineering, or industrial technology CTE courses
Get part-time jobs in machine shops, factories, or repair services
Take dual enrollment classes in engineering or manufacturing technology
Participate in manufacturing and engineering competitions
Learn to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software
Get certified in safety procedures and basic manufacturing skills
Job shadow machinists, engineers, or quality control specialists
Visit Virginia's advanced manufacturing centers
Learn about different manufacturing processes and materials
Take welding, machining, or electronics classes

Technical Training (1-2 years):

Jobs: Machine Operators, Assemblers, Welders, Quality Control Assistants
Average Salary: $35,000 - $50,000

Community College (2 years):

Jobs: Machinists, Industrial Technicians, Tool and Die Makers, Maintenance Mechanics
Average Salary: $50,000 - $70,000

Four-Year College:

Jobs: Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Control Managers, Production Supervisors, Industrial Designers
Average Salary: $65,000 - $90,000

Advanced Degrees:

Jobs: Manufacturing Managers, Industrial Engineers, Plant Directors, Operations Managers
Average Salary: $85,000 - $120,000+

Try It Out!

Build models or take apart old electronics to see how they work
Use 3D design software to create digital models
Shadow workers at local manufacturing companies
Join your school's robotics team or engineering club
Visit manufacturing museums or maker spaces
Learn basic woodworking or metalworking skills
Take apart and rebuild small machines (with permission)
Design and build simple products using everyday materials
Participate in engineering design challenges

Fun Fact: Did you know that Virginia is home to the largest shipbuilding facility in the world? Newport News Shipbuilding builds nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines for the U.S. Navy. Virginia also manufactures a wide range of products, from spacecraft components to custom race car parts. The state's manufacturers export products to over 200 countries worldwide.