It’s Time For Us To Do Better

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Celebrating #ManufacturingDay and the AWT Transformation Center

On Friday, October 7, we celebrated #ManufacturingDay and the Ribbon Cutting for the new Alliance For Working Together (AWT) Foundation’s Transformation Center in Mentor, OH.

Having known the incredible folks at AWT for years through my roles at Swagelok, NTMA, and the Precision Metalforming Association—not to mention my volunteer work for the Junior Robobots competition and various #manufacturing and #workforcedevelopment groups—this event was particularly special to me.

The new space is nothing short of extraordinary, filled with brand-new manual and CNC machines, quality inspection equipment, classrooms, and cutting-edge technology to engage students of all ages and backgrounds.

Why this matters:

Every library, community center, K-12 school, vocational-technical school, and higher education institution needs to know about venues like this and actively work to connect with them. Communities should seek out passionate individuals in in-demand industries—like manufacturing, healthcare, and IT—and fund their big ideas.

Insights from Team NEO’s Aligning Opportunities Launch

On Thursday, October 27, I started the morning with Team NEO at their Aligning Opportunities Launch. The panel discussions were brimming with energy and ideas that left me inspired.

Here’s what stood out:

  • Credential Tracks: Can we encourage kids to add a “minor” in a credential track like #manufacturing, #IT, or #healthcare? These are recession-proof industries that kids today have seen thrive despite challenges like the pandemic and inflation.
  • Employer Involvement: Employers need to get curious about providing wrap-around services for their workers, addressing life challenges like childcare, elder care, and transportation.
  • Community Connections: Strengthen relationships with folks within 45 minutes of your location who aren’t on LinkedIn or actively applying. Get to know your community, and let them get to know your company.
  • Bootcamps and Events: Create immersive “bootcamps” that showcase career paths—not just tours, but curated experiences for educators, administrators, students, and parents. Leverage big regional events, like Cleveland’s involvement in the Artemis mission, to highlight opportunities.

“Out of School Time” Lunch Forum with Youth Opportunities Unlimited

Later that day, I joined the Youth Opportunities Unlimited team at The City Club of Cleveland for a forum on “out of school time.” The statistics were eye-opening, and the discussion was energizing:

  • 80% of a child’s waking hours happen outside school.
  • Every $1 invested in out-of-school programs saves $3 in the local economy.
  • Quality programs ensure every adult involved knows each child’s progress and what they need to grow.
  • Teachers and principals play a key role in advocating for these programs—getting their buy-in is critical.

One line resonated deeply with me:
“We work with kids so we can make better adults.”

How Can We Make a Difference?

What can YOU do to help make better adults?
How can I help you bring your ideas to life?

I love a good brainstorming session! Let’s chat: Schedule a meeting with me here.

Together, we can create connections and opportunities that inspire real change.