Description

Manufacturing Pathways: Building the Future Workforce from Middle School to Industry 4.0 Careers
How do we spark interest in manufacturing careers early and guide students toward high-demand, high-wage opportunities in Industry 4.0? Join Jason and Jake Hoffman as they share a comprehensive, scalable solution that starts in middle school and leads students all the way to industry-recognized credentials and college degrees. This session will highlight a hands-on, project-based learning model designed specifically for middle school Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. The approach integrates engaging, real-world projects that introduce core concepts in manufacturing, automation, and digital technologies, laying a solid foundation for high school Industry 4.0 Fundamentals. Attendees will learn how this pathway aligns with the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) credentials and seamlessly transitions students toward an associate degree in Automation Leadership at the University of Akron. From early exploration to postsecondary success, this model provides a clear, attainable roadmap to prepare students for the modern manufacturing workforce. Whether you're a CTE director, curriculum coordinator, or a district administrator seeking future-ready pathways, this session will provide practical insights and proven strategies to build a talent pipeline that begins in the classroom and ends on the cutting edge of Industry 4.0. Key Takeaways: • A complete middle school-to-college manufacturing pathway • Strategies to implement hands-on, project-based learning at the middle level • Alignment to SACA credentials and Industry 4.0 standards • Partnership opportunities with the University of Akron for dual credit and degree advancement Description

Speakers

Jake Hoffman, Buckeye Educational Systems