Nypro, a Jabil Company hosted approximately 20 young men and women from the Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg and Leominster and the Spanish American Center on Wednesday, October 12, 2016.

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its economic development affiliate the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation organized this tour in partnership with Mr. Jon Blodgett, Teen Director of the Boys & Girls Club, as well as Mr. Bill Muldoon and Mr. Tim Brown, both of Nypro, a Jabil Company.  The tour was part of efforts to celebrate Manufacturing Month and inspire young people to consider careers in advanced manufacturing.

The Nypro team kicked off the day’s events at their facility in Clinton, with an informative presentation followed by a tour. The young men and women from both the Spanish American Center and the Boys & Girls Club were privy to a wealth of knowledge and hands-on demonstrations. Rounding out the tour, members participated in a Q&A with the team and learned about 3D design and the advanced manufacturing processes used in the industry.

“Manufacturing is alive and well in North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy Nascimento, President and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, “Advanced manufacturing accounts for one in four jobs in the region and these are some of the most well-paid, highly trained and in demand jobs in the workforce, working on some of the most advanced equipment and technology.”

However, many manufacturers have been challenged recruiting the workers they need.  Despite the high wage potential and increasing employer demand, there is both a need for more young workers and a skills gap among an existing and a transitioning workforce.

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation remain committed to supporting and growing this critical sector of the region’s economy.  From our collaborations with local schools and colleges, internship and career exploration programs and our HYPE program, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation, are engaging and connecting businesses to the next generation of talent—to ensure a consistent and continual pipeline of talent.