Plastics Business
Since 2007, students have been making parts for paying customers at Cardinal Manufacturing, Strum, Wisconsin – a student-run business that is developing future CNC machinists, welder/fabricators, engineers and related office staff. On Aug. 16, members of the Manufacturers Association of Plastics Processors (MAPP) will tour the facility to see how Cardinal has shattered paradigms by becoming the national model for filling the skills gap.
The program was designed as a localized way to address the skills gap in advanced manufacturing and to engage students in meaningful education. At Cardinal Manufacturing, students are exposed to the potential of manufacturing-related careers, sharpening their technical skills and instilling the soft skills and professionalism that employers crave. The program is thriving, cash flow is strong and local manufacturers now can hire recent graduates who already have experience in meeting customer demands.
Cardinal Manufacturing has created a program that funds itself by doing work for area manufacturers as training material for the students – eliminating the barrier of unfunded technical training seen in schools across the country.
For more information on the plant tour, including registration and lodging details, visit www.mappinc.com.
