District 88 participates in events to recognize and celebrate Manufacturing Month

District 88 provides multiple and flexible pathways for students to find college and career success

In recognition of Manufacturing Month (which takes place in October), District 88 recently participated in two events to celebrate and highlight the manufacturing industry.

“Makers on the Move” Bus Tour

On Oct. 7, District 88 Director of Student Career Development Iridia Nevarez attended the “Makers on the Move” Bus Tour, which made a stop at SWD Inc. in Addison. According to https://makersonthemove.org, “Designed to showcase modern manufacturing (which is high-tech, clean, diverse and sustainable), the ‘Makers on the Move’ Bus Tour will visit manufacturing facilities, colleges and high schools throughout the state to highlight the innovative manufacturing sector and amazing job opportunities that are available today.” It is an initiative of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC).

During the event, State Rep. Terra Costa Howard and SWD Inc. President Rick Delawder commended District 88 for its commitment to expand and enhance work-based learning opportunities for students and thanked district leaders for their continued efforts and partnership. To view a clip of Rep. Costa Howard's speech, click on the video above. Delawder is pictured speaking above.

Employer Roundtable

On Oct. 9, Nevarez attended an Employer Roundtable, hosted by the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board. The event took place at College of DuPage, and the purpose was to inform businesses about the benefits of apprenticeships.

SWD Inc. in Addison, Northwestern Medicine and United Airlines shared how they started their apprenticeship programs, and SWD Inc. Director of Human Resources Erin Strickland thanked and recognized District 88 for its collaboration and work in this area. The group discussed current challenges and ideas, as well as available resources.

For more information about Manufacturing Month, go to https://ima-net.org/education-foundation/manufacturing-month.

District 88 is committed to providing multiple and flexible pathways for students to ensure they are college and career ready and continues to partner with colleges/universities and local businesses to expand these opportunities. See details at www.dupage88.net/Pathways. District 88 also invites companies to collaborate with the district and support students. See details at www.dupage88.net/BusinessPartnerships.