Advanced Manufacturing Week at Everett Community College Taking Place April 23-25

Scheduled from April 23-25, 2024, Advanced Manufacturing Week at Everett Community College aims to connect 600 high school students with lucrative career opportunities in advanced manufacturing sectors. Funded by $1. 5 million from Snohomish County through the American Rescue Plan Act, the program is designed to enhance youth career exploration in STEM fields. Participants will receive in-depth presentations, employer demonstrations, and hands-on projects to stimulate interest in high-wage jobs. Executive Dave Somers emphasized the importance of this initiative in fostering a skilled workforce for the county's economic growth, particularly for students from rural areas.

The program addresses barriers such as transportation by providing lunch and transport for participants. Alyssa Jackson, Snohomish STEM Network Director, noted that 43% of high-demand jobs in the region will require STEM literacy and postsecondary training. With a focus on collaboration between local educational institutions and businesses, the event empowers students to pursue careers in manufacturing. Local leaders are optimistic that initiatives like this will cultivate a robust future workforce, ensuring the region's economy remains competitive.