ESCANABA — A group of Escanaba High School students are exploring career options, and Thursday, they took part in a tour at Engineered Machined Products.
Many of the students are part of the program Jobs for America’s Graduates. It was the first time many of these upperclassmen have been to EMP, but one thing they had in common was an interest in manufacturing.
EMP officials give about four to six student tours every year to show students what it's like in the manufacturing industry. There’s a wide range of jobs, and a lot of new technology is used.
Senior Vincent Manitowabi said he still doesn't know what he wants to do in his career, but he is hoping to land an entry-level position at EMP after graduation.
“We're the shapers of the world,” said Manitowabi. “We're the young minds . We need to step it up. We need to learn how to do stuff and do it right. A lot of kids, they just don't care anymore."
For over 30 years, the JAG program has encouraged students to pursue higher education.
Jeni Spaulding is the instructor of the year-long program. She has especially high hopes for her students.
“For me,” explains Spaulding, “I think it's hearing the things we're trying to impart within the classroom from someone else. From an employer, from someone who is working in a business to say, it's those good work habits that you bring. It’s the attitude, the attention to detail."
EMP officials say there's a growing need for engineers and machinists. The company is hoping to hire more homegrown workers to help grow the U.P. economy.
The tour was coordinated by Michigan Works! The Job Force Board.