What if we told you about an industry that strengthens our national economy and lets you make an impact on people’s lives every day? Now imagine this industry pays workers more than the average American, and has nearly twice as many open jobs as people to fill them. And what if you could kickstart a career in this exciting industry, with free or low-cost training programs right here in Hillsborough County?

We’re talking about manufacturing — an industry brimming with opportunity in Hillsborough County as well as across the nation. Surprised? Maybe you’re holding onto some outdated notions about manufacturing. Here are a few proven facts to set the record straight.

MYTH: Manufacturers don’t make enough to live comfortably.

FACT: Manufacturers make up to $20,000 more than the average American worker.

According to The National Association of Manufacturers, manufacturing jobs pay 12 percent more than the average of non-manufacturing jobs.

MYTH: Manufacturing jobs are disappearing.

FACT: The demand for skilled manufacturers is growing nationwide.   

According to Market Watch, 264,000 new manufacturing jobs were added in 2018. And according to a 2018 report from Deloitte Institute, up to 89% of manufacturing jobs will go unfilled over the next ten years because of the lack of skilled workers. 

MYTH: Manufacturing jobs don’t offer good benefits.

FACT: The majority of manufacturers offer health insurance to their employees.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 92 percent of manufacturing employees were eligible for health insurance benefits in 2018. And many manufacturers offer paid training and apprenticeships, so you can develop your skills while collecting a paycheck.

MYTH: American manufacturing is on the decline.

FACT: The U.S. manufacturing industry is one of the largest in the world.

According to the MAPI Foundation, the U.S. is responsible for 17% of global manufacturing. Keeping our manufacturing industry strong benefits our whole nation’s economy: according to the National Association of Manufacturers, one manufacturing employee generates another 3.4 workers in non-manufacturing industries.

MYTH: A “real” career requires at least a bachelor’s degree. 

FACT: You can qualify for entry-level manufacturing jobs with fewer than two years of training, and there’s just as much potential for growth. 

In half the time it takes to finish a traditional college degree, you could earn a professional certification in a hot field such as welding, one of the top-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree, according to MoneyWise.

Interested in learning even more about manufacturing? Check out the other top Careers in our county, explore Education and Training programs that can get you started, and remember to sign up for important updates from the Manufacturing Alliance.

Categorized in: Careers, Education, Training