Investing in Education

Educational grants provided to teachers play a critical role in enhancing classroom experiences. According to McGrath, “It goes to teachers, not student scholarships,” signifying that the funding directly supports the professionals in education tasked with shaping future generations.

Kevin Lavelle, general manager of Eastern Controls, emphasized that these grants are allocated to schools of various educational stages, ensuring the funds directly benefit teachers as they create interactive learning environments in their classrooms.

Creating Community Connections

The event surrounding these grants stands out due to its diverse range of sponsors, which included sectors such as food and beverage, engineering, construction, and life sciences. Lavelle noted, “Our approach is to create a community that shares our vision.” Through collaboration, the aim is to maximize impact rather than operating in isolation.

Otte echoed this sentiment from the employer perspective, stating, “It’s vital. We’re stronger together than we are separately.” By joining forces to develop a future talent pipeline, stakeholders can benefit broadly instead of competing for skilled individuals.

Engaging Parents and Students

Parents represent a secondary audience for the event, as Lavelle explained, “I think this event is just as much for the parents.” By showcasing various career opportunities, the event allows parents to understand that there are multiple pathways for their children’s success, often without the necessity of a four-year degree.

Lavelle pointed out that many promising career paths originate from technical schools, broadening the landscape for students to explore alternative educational trajectories. He highlighted the significant engagement of middle school students, interested in programming and 3D printing, as a pivotal age for fostering interest in high-demand careers.

The Importance of Process Control

The inaugural Community of Control and Engineering Forum (CCEF) launched in 2023 against the backdrop of a recovering economy from the Covid-19 pandemic. Lavelle articulated his vision for the U.S. manufacturing sector, noting, “Manufacturing, it’s really exciting right now, because it’s coming back to the United States.” To leverage this momentum, a skilled workforce is essential for operating advanced facilities.

Lavelle urged industry leaders to take proactive steps in engaging with educational institutions. “STEM is a buzzword, but let’s talk about jobs. Let’s talk about long-term, very good paying jobs,” he stated, underscoring the importance of aligning educational focus with employment opportunities.

Showcasing Future Careers

The Edgmont forum serves as an innovative platform for students and parents alike to explore the careers available in process automation and related fields. By showcasing what these careers entail, the event demystifies potential job roles and opportunities within manufacturing, encouraging the next generation to envision themselves in these roles.