10 Compelling Reasons to Choose a Career in Manufacturing

HOW EAGLEMATIC IS PAVING THE WAY TOWARD YOUR FUTURE

In the ever-evolving world of career choices, one sector consistently stands out for its potential for growth, innovation, and stability: manufacturing. Despite being one of the oldest industries, manufacturing continues to be a cornerstone of the global economy and a hotbed for technological progress. Whether you’re a fresh high school graduate exploring career options or a seasoned professional considering a change of pace, manufacturing offers immense opportunities. Here are ten compelling reasons why you should consider a role in this dynamic industry.

Wide angle view of very clean manufacturing plant

1. JOIN AN INDUSTRY IN HIGH DEMAND

The manufacturing industry is currently witnessing a significant skills gap, primarily driven by two key factors – reshoring and the retirement of the baby boomer generation.

Reshoring is a trend where companies who had previously offshored their manufacturing processes are now bringing them back to the U.S. This shift is motivated by various factors like improving quality control, shortening supply chains, and responding more quickly to changes in consumer demand. As more companies adopt this approach, the demand for skilled manufacturing workers in the U.S. is growing.

Meanwhile, the retirement of the baby boomer generation is causing a sharp decline in the current workforce. As these seasoned workers retire, they leave behind positions that require a high level of skill and experience, creating a need for new workers who can fill these roles.

These two factors combined are expected to result in an estimated 3.5 million new skilled manufacturing jobs within the next decade. By choosing a career in manufacturing, you are stepping into an industry that not only values your skills but also needs them to keep pace with the ongoing technological and societal changes.

2. ENJOY COMPETITIVE SALARIES AND BENEFITS

In terms of financial compensation, manufacturing jobs pay well. The average manufacturing salary in the U.S. is over $63,000. Additionally, many full-time positions come with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and more.

Besides an attractive salary, full-time positions in manufacturing often come with a comprehensive benefits package. For instance, at Eagle Manufacturing, employees receive a competitive compensation package. This includes a 401k retirement plan with a 4% match, which encourages long-term saving and investment for retirement. We also offer continued education, which aids in the personal development and skill enhancement of the employees. Moreover, employees enjoy birthdays off, promoting a work-life balance.

The package further includes dental, vision, and medical insurance, ensuring healthcare needs are catered to. Short and long-term disability insurance provides financial protection in case of a disabling illness or injury. Life insurance is also part of the package, offering a financial safety net for the employees’ families. This comprehensive benefits package not only offers financial security but also contributes towards employee satisfaction and retention.

3. AVOID STUDENT DEBT

In today’s competitive job market, having a college degree is often seen as a prerequisite for success. This has led many students to take on substantial amounts of debt to finance their higher education. As of now, the average student debt for college graduates stands at over $31,000, a daunting sum to repay, especially for those just launching their careers.

However, Eagle Manufacturing presents a contrasting and appealing career path. The company offers a variety of entry-level positions that don’t require a college degree, making it possible for individuals to start a career without the burden of student loans. These positions provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing individuals to develop practical skills that are highly valuable within the manufacturing industry.

Moreover, Eagle Manufacturing offers on-the-job training opportunities. These programs allow employees to gain essential industry knowledge and skills while earning a salary, rather than spending money on tuition. This approach to learning and development can be a more efficient way to acquire the skills needed for career advancement.

4. WORK WITH CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY

Manufacturing is at the forefront of technological advancements, embracing innovations like 3D printing, robotics, Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, Ai integration, and Big Data.

A career at Eagle Manufacturing exposes you to the latest advancements in manufacturing technology. By working here, you’ll get hands-on experience with these cutting-edge tools and concepts.

You’ll be required to understand and operate advanced machinery, using technological skills that are essential in the modern manufacturing industry. The use of augmented reality, for instance, could revolutionize your approach to problem-solving and process optimization. Ai integration might involve working with intelligent automation systems, predictive maintenance, and data analysis that can significantly enhance efficiency and precision.

In addition, the company’s emphasis on continuous learning and skills development ensures that you’re always up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry. This culture of learning and innovation can be particularly satisfying if you have a love for technology and a desire to be at the cutting edge of its application in manufacturing.

Large automation machine made by eaglematic

5. EXPERIENCE JOB STABILITY

During uncertain economic times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, many industries faced significant disruption. However, manufacturing was considered an essential business and remained operational. The high demand for skilled workers in this sector further enhances job stability, with employers offering higher wages and better benefits to retain their workforce.

The manufacturing sector creates tangible products that are always in demand, this gives a certain level of consistency and predictability to the operations of the sector. Manufacturing jobs are easier to scale than most service jobs. This scalability allows for the growth of the sector while maintaining the same job roles, providing a degree of job security for those in the industry.

Additionally, manufacturing contributes significantly to the GDP, which underscores its importance and stability in the economy. In 2013, manufacturing generated $2.1 trillion, or 12.5% of total US GDP.

However, it’s important to note that while these factors contribute to the stability of manufacturing jobs, the landscape of manufacturing is also evolving with technological advancements, requiring continuous skills development.

6. ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVANCEMENT

Multitude of Roles: Whether an individual is interested in production, engineering, quality control, sales, logistics, or even human resources, there’s a role within the manufacturing industry. This range of roles allows for substantial professional growth as individuals can transfer between different departments, gaining a wide array of skills and experiences.

Career Advancement Opportunities: Additionally, the manufacturing industry often promotes from within. This means that those who start on the factory floor or in entry-level positions have the opportunity to work their way up to supervisory or managerial roles. In many cases, companies also provide necessary training and development programs to equip their employees with the skills needed for career advancement.

Continuous Learning Environment: Manufacturing is an industry that’s always evolving with technological advancements. This provides professionals in this sector with the chance to continuously update their skills, keeping their knowledge current and relevant. This not only enhances job security but also opens up opportunities for career growth.

Interdepartmental Movement: The diversity within the industry also allows employees to switch between different departments. For instance, one could start in a production role and then move into a sales position. Such flexibility makes the industry attractive for those who prefer variety in their career.

Global Opportunities: Furthermore, manufacturing companies often have a global presence, providing employees with the opportunity to work in different parts of the world. This can greatly enhance one’s professional and personal growth.

7. TAKE PRIDE IN CREATING TANGIBLE PRODUCTS

Being part of the manufacturing industry allows you to create tangible products that have a direct impact on people’s lives. This impact can range from producing everyday items that simplify tasks, to manufacturing highly specialized equipment that can save lives, enhance human capabilities, or even revolutionize industries. The satisfaction derived from seeing the end product of your work is immense. It’s not just about the physical product, but the realization that your efforts are contributing to societal progress, improving the quality of life, and driving economic growth.

Working in manufacturing also gives you a sense of pride. The pride comes from knowing that your skills, knowledge, and efforts are put into producing something tangible, something real. Unlike some professions where outcomes can be abstract or intangible, in manufacturing, you can see, touch, and sometimes even use what you’ve produced. This can result in a deep sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.

Moreover, the manufacturing process itself can be highly rewarding. It involves problem-solving, innovation, and creativity – all of which can be intellectually stimulating and personally gratifying. You’re not just assembling parts; you’re solving complex engineering problems, optimizing processes, ensuring quality, and sometimes even inventing new ways of doing things.

Extruded plastics and rubber parts made on eaglematic machines

8. STAY ACTIVE AND ENGAGED

Hours spent staring at computer screens, long conference calls, and repetitive tasks can make the workday feel uninspiring for some people. The lack of physical activity can also lead to health issues, such as obesity, heart disease, and mental health problems.

In contrast to desk jobs, manufacturing roles often require a unique blend of physical activity, collaboration, and on-the-spot decision-making. Workers in manufacturing are typically on their feet, moving around, and using machinery to produce goods. The physical nature of the job can be a refreshing change for those who find desk jobs restrictive and uninspiring.

Additionally, manufacturing jobs often involve working as part of a team to achieve common goals. This sense of camaraderie and collaboration can be fulfilling for individuals who enjoy interpersonal interaction and shared achievement.

9. ALIGN YOUR CAREER WITH YOUR PERSONAL INTERESTS

Manufacturing spans a wide range of industries, allowing you to align your job with your personal interests. For instance, if you’re a fan of motorsports, you could find a rewarding career in automotive manufacturing. Or, if you’re intrigued by technology, you could help build the next big electronic device.

At Eagle, we have embedded our expertise across diverse industries including automotive, recycling, aerospace, and defense. This means that regardless of your personal interests, you’ll likely find a role that fits.

10. UTILIZE YOUR CREATIVITY AND PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS

The perception of manufacturing jobs as monotonous and repetitive is a relic of a bygone era. Modern manufacturing has evolved far beyond simple assembly line work. It requires a blend of creative thinking and problem-solving abilities, offering a dynamic and challenging environment for professionals.

Today’s manufacturing processes are complex and multifaceted. They require not just understanding the mechanics of machines or the sequencing of operations. The demand for innovative and efficient ways of manufacturing has drastically increased in recent years due to the pressing needs for sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and quality assurance. This has led to the need for creative thinking – the ability to see beyond the norm and devise novel solutions to pressing problems.

Technology plays a crucial role in facilitating creative thinking and problem-solving in modern manufacturing. Advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) provide the tools for manufacturers to innovate and optimize their processes. These technologies can provide real-time data, predictive analytics, and automation capabilities, all of which can be leveraged to enhance creative problem-solving.

 

KICKSTART YOUR MANUFACTURING CAREER WITH EAGLE MANUFACTURING

At Eagle Manufacturing, we’re always seeking talented individuals to join our team. We take pride in providing a positive company culture that encourages hard work and innovation. Our focus on going green and creating a more sustainable infrastructure within our company is reflected in our use of LED lighting, electric forklifts, and our initiatives in the recycling and biodegradable world of manufacturing.

We strongly believe in rewarding our employees with competitive pay, comprehensive health benefits, and much more. Our commitment to continued education ensures our team members are always at the forefront of industry advancements, and we encourage our employees to seek out programs that will benefit their future.

Working for EagleMatic is anything but mundane. Every day is something new and exciting! We’re always working with different clients in various industries, solving their critical problems and offering them robust solutions. Each day you come to work is a day to overcome a challenge or learn something new.

If you’re looking for somewhere you can really put your all into becoming the best version of yourself—then you’ve come to the right place. The ability to become a problem-solver and inventor is so rewarding. We strive to encourage all of our employees to seize the day and give themselves a chance to do great things.

If you’re ready to start a fulfilling career in manufacturing, we invite you to explore our career page for current opportunities. If your particular job is not listed, feel free to send us a copy of your resume and tell us the position you are looking for! Whether it’s engineering, CNC operation, machine building, or management positions, we have plenty of opportunities here at Eagle.

A career in manufacturing offers a plethora of opportunities. Good pay, benefits, job stability, and working with the latest technologies are just a few of the advantages over other career choices.

Embrace Challenges, Ignite Innovation. Join the EagleMatic team today and unleash your potential!