Upstate South Carolina is a global leader in manufacturing — a reputation earned through decades of innovation, investment, and a highly skilled workforce.
But maintaining this leadership position hinges on attracting and preparing the next generation of talent.
Across the Upstate, manufacturers use robotics, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), 3D printing and data analytics to produce automobiles, aircraft, medical devices, energy systems and advanced materials.
These companies are not only building products; they are powering our economy and creating rewarding careers for the next generation.
The challenge is ensuring young people understand the breadth of opportunities available, and the education and training needed to pursue it.
Automation and AI are changing manufacturing, but they are not making people less important. As machines take on routine, repetitive and physically demanding tasks, workers are increasingly relied upon to focus on problem-solving, quality control, programming, maintenance, innovation and decision-making.
AI can help identify equipment problems, improve product quality, manage complex supply chains, reduce waste and improve safety. But it still depends on skilled people who can use it effectively, question its conclusions and apply sound judgment to real-world challenges.
The workers best positioned for success will not compete with technology. They will know how to work with it.
That creates career paths for young people with a wide range of interests and abilities. Advanced manufacturing needs engineers and computer scientists, but also technicians, machinists, electricians, programmers, robotics specialists, maintenance professionals, quality experts, production leaders and skilled operators. These careers offer strong compensation, advancement potential and multiple educational pathways, including technical certificates, apprenticeships, two-year and four-year degrees.
Pathways to advanced manufacturing can begin as early as high school. Thanks to dual enrollment options in manufacturing-related fields, which are offered at no cost to students, someone in high school can earn industry credentials, begin work, and continue building a resume with college degrees.
Careers in advanced manufacturing offer something uniquely satisfying: the chance to see tangible results. Employees in this sector can help design a product, solve a production challenge, improve a process or operate technology that changes how the world works.
That is the purpose of Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Night at Fluor Field. On Tuesday, Aug. 4, for the 11th consecutive year, leading Upstate employers and academic organizations will give young people a firsthand look at the innovation happening across our region.
Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Night will feature interactive exhibits in robotics, AI, automation, engineering, 3D printing and other advanced technologies. Students and families can meet professionals, explore educational pathways and hear directly from employers about the skills needed in the years ahead.
The goal is not simply to tell students that these careers are promising. It is to let them see, touch and experience the technology — to “ignite the passion” for manufacturing and engineering with students throughout the region and beyond.
Everyone is encouraged to attend AM&E Night at Fluor Field on Aug. 4. Complimentary tickets for all K–12 students are available at www.GreenvilleDrive.com/AME.
Sincerely,
Hannah Carmical, general manager/Greenville
Fluor Corporation
Burke Royster, Ph.D., superintendent
Greenville County Schools
Larry Miller, Ph.D., president
Greenville Technical College
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