Polaris MEP event brings together students, manufacturers and state leaders to strengthen Rhode Island’s manufacturing workforce pipeline.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Hundreds of Rhode Island students are getting a firsthand look at the future of manufacturing today as Polaris MEP hosts its annual Manufacturing Career Exploration Experience—RI’s Future in the Making—at Farm Fresh Rhode Island in Providence. The event brings together students, local manufacturers and educational partners to showcase the technology, creativity and career opportunities driving Rhode Island’s manufacturing industry forward.
Part of the nationwide celebration of Manufacturing Month each October, RI’s Future in the Making aims to introduce students to an industry that offers rewarding career opportunities while helping manufacturers build relationships with the next generation of workers. This year, 257 students from 11 high schools will participate in interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, and conversations with industry professionals. These experiences can help students recognize connections between their interests, their education and potential career paths in manufacturing.
“RI’s Future in the Making gives students the opportunity to see firsthand what a career in modern manufacturing can look like. By connecting them with local manufacturers and letting them experience the technology, creativity and problem-solving that drive the industry, we can open their eyes to career paths they may never have considered. Investing in these experiences today helps build the skilled workforce Rhode Island manufacturers will need to grow and succeed in the years ahead,” said Matt Watson, Center Director of Polaris MEP.
Rather than simply learning about manufacturing in a classroom, students at today’s event are experiencing the industry firsthand. Interactive exhibitor stations demonstrate how manufacturing combines technology, innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving in real-world applications.
“This event is a good opportunity to see what is in our community and get information about what is out there before we go to college,” said a senior at Mount Hope High School in Bristol. “I am planning to go to school for aerospace engineering, so it is nice to see how what I am going to be doing is going to apply to the real world.”
For manufacturers, the event offers an opportunity to introduce their companies to potential future employees and help students understand the range of skills and career pathways available in the industry.
“This event has been really fun—seeing the students come through the hall and seeing their faces light up when they see new career areas that they may never have considered as career paths for them,” said exhibitor, Layne Mayer, Amerisewn’s Director of Growth.
Today’s event also drew state and federal leaders, underscoring the importance of manufacturing to Rhode Island’s economy and the need to prepare the next generation for careers in the industry.
Among the officials scheduled to attend were:
- Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos
- Helena Foulkes, Democratic candidate for governor
- Congressman Gabe Amo
- Stefan Pryor, Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce
Their participation highlights the connection between workforce development, economic growth, and the continued strength of Rhode Island’s manufacturing sector.
As manufacturers face ongoing workforce needs and evolving technological demands, connecting students with employers and career opportunities is an important step toward developing a strong, sustainable talent pipeline.
Thank You to Our Exhibitors and Sponsors
Polaris MEP extends its appreciation to the manufacturers, organizations and sponsors whose participation makes RI’s Future in the Making possible. Their commitment helps bring manufacturing careers to life for students and supports efforts to strengthen the industry’s future workforce.
Special thanks to our event sponsors:
- General Dynamics Electric Boat
- igus
- Tiffany & Co.
- JA Inspire
- New England Institute of Technology (NEIT)
Polaris MEP also thanks all participating exhibitors for sharing their expertise, demonstrating their technologies and taking the time to engage with students. Their involvement gives students a valuable opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals and discover career possibilities they may not have previously considered.
About Polaris MEP
Polaris MEP helps Rhode Island manufacturers and tech companies overcome growth challenges by providing technical assistance and workforce support. By listening to their partners and the communities they serve, Polaris MEP creates economic prosperity for both individuals and businesses in Rhode Island.