The College of Lake County (CLC) plays a vital role in developing a pipeline of talent for Lake County employers, and preparing the workforce with the in-demand skills needed to enjoy rewarding careers. CLC is a leader in manufacturing education, having invested in a state-of-the-art Advanced Technology Center to train students and create connections with local manufacturers. As Manufacturing Month approaches, we invited CLC to share how the school is celebrating and supporting the industry this October.
October isn’t just about falling leaves and spooky decorations—it’s also Manufacturing Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the incredible contributions of the manufacturing sector. For Lake County, this month is a special opportunity to shine a spotlight on the local industry that plays a crucial role in our community’s economy and innovation landscape.
The College of Lake County’s (CLC) annual celebration promotes the significance of manufacturing in our region and highlights the collaborative efforts between CLC, local businesses, economic developers and educational partners. The collective goal is to inspire the next generation of manufacturers, provide valuable career insights and strengthen workforce partnerships across Lake County.
Manufacturing Matters
Lake County is home to a diverse array of manufacturing businesses, from high-tech companies producing cutting-edge electronics to manufacturers crafting essential goods. These businesses are not just economic engines but also pillars of community development, providing thousands of jobs and driving regional growth.
“Manufacturing Month exemplifies our commitment to fostering strong partnerships between education and industry,” said Dr. Ali O’Brien, Vice President of Community and Workforce Partnerships at College of Lake County. “These events provide invaluable opportunities for students to explore career paths, for employers to connect with future talent and for the community to engage with the dynamic world of manufacturing. Together, we are building a brighter future for Lake County.”
A Time To Look Ahead
The manufacturing landscape is evolving rapidly with advancements in automation, AI and sustainable practices. Lake County’s manufacturers are at the forefront of these changes, adapting and leading in new directions.
The focus on innovation and technology is not just about keeping up with global trends—it’s about positioning Lake County as a hub for revolutionary manufacturing. By cultivating a supportive environment for industry growth and providing opportunities for education and training, we’re paving the way for a robust and dynamic future.
Engaging the Next Generation
Throughout October, CLC is hosting community events to engage the future manufacturing workforce.
Engineering Night will be held at the Grayslake Campus on Wednesday, October 2nd to raise awareness about engineering careers through hands-on demonstrations and discussions with transfer universities, industry professionals and CLC faculty.
Students and community members will connect with potential employers at the Manufacturing Career and Internship Fair on Thursday, October 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grayslake Campus. This event is a forum for businesses to attract new talent and the public to explore manufacturing job and internship opportunities.
Created for students and their families, Women in Manufacturing will take place on Tuesday, October 15 from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Advanced Technology Center (ATC) to increase awareness about the variety of opportunities and career paths for women in the manufacturing field. A panel of female leaders in the industry, manufacturing apprentices and a parent of a manufacturing student will share their experiences.
Along with the open community events, CLC will host Apprenticeship Awareness programs to provide high school students with an opportunity to explore how apprenticeships can lead to various manufacturing careers. CLC will also be connecting with schools across the county at the Manufacture Your Future event, where high school students and staff will engage with local manufacturers and CLC representatives, tour the ATC labs and participate in hands-on activities. Crestwood Industries, a plastic injection molding and tool manufacturer based out of Mundelein, is serving as the exclusive lunch sponsor for this event.
“In addition to serving our excellent team of employees who work to make the business a success, we are passionate about engaging our community,” said Des Paden, President of Crestwood Industries. “Over the past year, we’ve partnered with College of Lake County to make a positive impact for students and careers in manufacturing. It is a natural fit for us to join CLC’s Manufacturing Month celebration and support the upcoming Manufacture Your Future event this October.”
The Work Continues
The intentional work to strengthen the manufacturing sector does not stop at the end of October. CLC is proud to lead the charge on a new Manufacturing Alliance that aims to bring together manufacturers, educators and community leaders to foster innovation, share best practices and address common workforce challenges. The Manufacturing Alliance represents a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting local industry and providing unparalleled opportunities for growth and success.
“The Manufacturing Alliance is an exciting next step in our continued work to engage with and support manufacturers,” notes Lake County Partners’ President and CEO Kevin Considine. “Lake County has a proud tradition of manufacturing—it is a $20 billion dollar business and the largest contributor to our gross regional product. One out of every seven local jobs is in manufacturing, which is more than any other private sector industry. We understand its importance in our economy, and we are committed to working with our partners at the College of Lake County and elsewhere to ensure that businesses have what they need to grow.”
Manufacturing Month is a celebration of innovation, dedication and community spirit. It’s an opportunity to recognize the significant contributions of our local manufacturers and to look forward to the exciting future of the industry. As we honor the past and present achievements, let’s also embrace the possibilities that lie ahead, ensuring that Lake County remains a thriving center of manufacturing excellence.
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