As we welcome fall, we also have an important opportunity to celebrate what makes our region and our communities so strong — manufacturing.

October is Manufacturing Month, and it is a great time to recognize and celebrate the manufacturers that keep our communities moving forward. From the products you make to the people you employ and the skills you help develop, manufacturing plays an important role in our region every day.

This month, we want to recognize all of our TSMA manufacturing members and thank you for the work you do. Your commitment to innovation, your employees, and our communities helps strengthen the entire manufacturing industry.

Manufacturing Month is also about helping the next generation understand the opportunities available in our industry. One of the best ways to do that is by giving students the chance to see manufacturing firsthand.

TSMA is offering bus funding to help schools bring students to manufacturing facilities for tours. If your company is interested in hosting students or if you are a school looking for support to participate in a manufacturing tour, visit the TSMA website to learn more about available bus funds and how to get involved.

These experiences can make a lasting impression on students and help them see the many career opportunities available right here in our communities.

While our fall calendar may be a little quieter when it comes to events, there are still plenty of opportunities available to our members through Midwest Manufacturers Association (MMA). MMA offers several workforce development and business resources designed to help manufacturers connect with employees, develop talent, and grow their businesses. I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities and reach out to the MMA team if you are interested in learning more. MMA has grant opportunities available to help manufacturers with workforce development, training, apprenticeships, and other talent initiatives. If your company has a workforce need or is looking for ways to invest in your employees, these programs may be worth exploring.

Need help promoting your company, products, or brand? Marketing Manufactured, an MMA resource, provides affordable marketing services designed with manufacturers in mind. From social media advertising and promotional materials to other marketing support, it is another resource available to help tell your company's story.

Pathways to Careers is another important opportunity to connect manufacturers with students and educators. By helping students learn about manufacturing careers and the skills needed to succeed in our industry, we can continue building awareness and developing the workforce of tomorrow.

Thank you to all of our TSMA members for everything you do to strengthen manufacturing across our region. I encourage everyone to take some time this month to celebrate your employees, share your story, welcome students into your facilities, and help others see what a career in manufacturing can look like.

Happy Manufacturing Month!