Manufacturing Day Highlight Story
Ashley Redwick, inspired by Manufacturing Day, joined Whitlam Group in 2018 and continues to excel.
“Manufacturing Day® is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers.” “[It] addresses common [misconceptions] about manufacturing by giving manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coordinated effort, what manufacturing is — and what it isn’t.” (National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), 2018)
When I was in 11th grade at Warren Woods Tower High School, one of our counselors came into my program class and announced that we were chosen to participate in Manufacturing Day. She mentioned that it was only for 9th and 10th graders but I was interested in learning how labels were made, so I asked her if I could attend and I was approved.
On Manufacturing Day, we arrived at Whitlam Group for our tour. The guides told us about the plant, the machinery and its purpose, as well as what the company does. We went out to production and we got a chance to look through the loops (a magnifying glass that allows you to see print quality, color, and registration). We made our way around the production area and got the chance to watch all the machines running.
The machine that I found most interesting was the slitter because of all the intricate webs. I was so distracted by the slitter that as we were walking away, I tripped and almost fell.
After graduating, I called to look for a job because I enjoyed visiting Whitlam for manufacturing day. I was transferred to HR and got invited for an interview with Jim, the Manufacturing Manager and I was introduced to Mark, the Post Production Supervisor. After my interview, I went to get pre-screening tests and then received an e-mail telling me that I got the job! I started working the following week in assembly and on the slitter.
Now, I am working on the slitter and looking forward to expanding my knowledge and moving up!
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). (2018). Manufacturing Day. Retrieved from https://www.mfgday.com/