Ivy Tech opens doors for Manufacturing Day

Advanced manufacturing, technology programs to be on display

This article is brought to you by the Committee to Elect Mike Katcher.

Ivy Tech Community College’s Kokomo Campus is offering area high school students a chance to check out the College’s wide range of technology and advanced manufacturing programs as part of the national celebration of MFG Day (Manufacturing Day). Tours are being scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6.

“The open house will focus on real-world opportunities afforded by advanced manufacturing and technical education, opportunities exemplified by the $2.2 billion StarPlus Energy plant being built just north of the campus,” said Nicholas Capozzoli, Ed.D., executive director of Operations, Apprenticeships, and Special Projects for Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Service Area.

The tours will be followed by an information fair featuring area employers ready to discuss their companies, the kinds of jobs they offer, and the skills students need to be successful.

“With StarPlus, and a variety of new suppliers coming to town, this MFG Day event is a good opportunity for students to get in on the ground level of Ivy Tech’s Smart Manufacturing and Digital Integration program,” Capozzoli said. “Students will learn about the kind of programs Ivy Tech offers that will get them skilled and ready for the in-demand, high-paying jobs that are coming to Kokomo.”

Along with StarPlus Energy, employers who have confirmed their participation include Chariot Automotive Group, DC Coaters LLC, A. Raymond Tinnerman, Integrity EDM, Syndicate Sales, FedEx Ground, Compal, IMMI, Rochester Iron and Metals, and Heidelberg Materials.

The tours will include stops at programs ranging from agriculture and automotive technology to robotics and welding to advanced manufacturing and electrical engineering on the College’s high-tech campus at 1815 E. Morgan St.

“This will be especially beneficial for juniors and seniors who are looking at their next steps after high school,” Capozzoli said. “The intent is for students to first learn about the educational options here at Ivy Tech and then meet with employers and see how they can put their interests and skills into worthwhile careers.”

National Manufacturing Day was established in 2012 as “a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers.” The effort, supported by a group of industry sponsors, is designed to give manufacturers an opportunity to begin to address the skilled labor shortage they face, connect with future generations … and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the whole industry.”