Shown here, Synex Controls business manager Joel Southwell discusses career options in the heat-transfer industry with participating pupils from local welding, electrical wiring technology, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning programs.

“Nationally, there is a lack of training for the skilled trades professionals who are so needed in the manufacturing sector,” said Southwell. “Proactive training of high school students is an investment that U.S. manufacturing companies with the skilled workforce need to compete in today’s economy.”

Despite the nation’s current weak job market, the demand for workers qualified to perform many highly skilled jobs continues to grow, said Mark Hilton, vice president for manufacturing and new product development, Fulton Cos.

“There’s been a dramatic decline in the number of people who possess these skill sets,” said Hilton. “The kids represented in this visit have a really bright future in a time when we hear a lot of disheartening news about unemployment.”

Publication date: 05/28/2012