60 Detroit High School Students Experience Advanced Manufacturing at LIFT’s Manufacturing Day

In celebration of Manufacturing Day, LIFT, in partnership with Buildsubmarines.com, welcomed 60 students from the Detroit Public School Community District’s Communication and Media Arts and Denby high schools to its Detroit headquarters for a hands-on look at the future of advanced manufacturing.

National Manufacturing Day, traditionally celebrated on the first Friday in October but continued through the entire month, highlights the impact and innovation of the manufacturing industry. The day connects students, educators, and communities with manufacturers through open houses, tours, and interactive experiences, showcasing the exciting technologies, career opportunities, and people driving the future of manufacturing.

Through collaboration between LIFT and Code313, the students engaged in interactive demonstrations, immersive technology, and career-focused activities designed to showcase the many opportunities available in advanced manufacturing beyond traditional college pathways.

“Manufacturing Day is so important for our students because it gives them direct exposure to industries and careers they might not otherwise consider,” said Scott R. Conwell, Digital Media Arts Instructor at Communication and Media Arts High School. “Not every student will follow a four-year college path, and events like this show them that there are exciting, well-paying careers in skilled trades and advanced manufacturing. Our community needs these students to step into those roles to help close the skills gap.”

By connecting students with industry experts and real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), LIFT aims to spark interest in careers that are critical to the future of Michigan’s economy and to strengthen the nation’s position as advanced manufacturing leaders.

LIFT remains committed to building pathways for the next generation of innovators, technicians, and engineers. Through initiatives like Manufacturing Day, the institute continues to strengthen the talent pipeline, promote access to technical education, and ensure that Detroit’s students are prepared to power the future of American manufacturing.