Discover a Fulfilling Career in Manufacturing
Choosing a career path is a major life decision, whether you’re a student exploring options or an adult seeking a new direction. With so many career possibilities, it can be overwhelming to weigh factors like required skills, education, costs, and long-term benefits.
As a trusted provider of custom manufacturing equipment, we are passionate advocates for the many rewarding career opportunities the manufacturing industry offers.
Why Choose a Career in Manufacturing?
Manufacturing is a dynamic and growing industry, offering a wide variety of career opportunities with excellent job security. We’re currently experiencing what’s known as the “Skills Gap,” where job creation is outpacing the availability of skilled workers. Many seasoned professionals in the industry are nearing retirement, which will open up an estimated 2.4 million job opportunities between now and 2028, according to a 2018 Skills Gap Study.
Manufacturing careers are not only plentiful, but they also offer competitive wages. In fact, manufacturing remains one of Ohio’s highest-paying sectors. The Ohio Manufacturer’s Association reports that, in 2022, the average annual earnings for Ohio workers in manufacturing were $70,003, surpassing other industries. This trend continues to make manufacturing a top choice for a stable and prosperous career.
What Does a Manufacturing Career Look Like?
You might be wondering, “What kinds of jobs are available in manufacturing, and how do I get started?” A career in manufacturing spans a wide range of roles, from machinists, welders, and assemblers to engineers, sales professionals, marketers, and human resource specialists. Some positions require technical training from vocational schools, while others may need a 2- or 4-year college degree. Many entry-level jobs require only a high school diploma or GED. The beauty of the industry is its diversity—there’s something for everyone, regardless of your background or skill set.
For a detailed look at the various manufacturing roles, their education requirements, and potential salaries, visit Making Ohio to learn more.
Explore Career Opportunities at French
If you’re ready to start your journey in manufacturing, visit our Career Opportunities page to see the positions currently available at French.
More Fast Facts About Manufacturing in Ohio
- In 2022, Ohio exported $56.8 billion in goods to 212 countries and territories, an 11.8% increase in value from 2021 ($50.7 billion). By comparison, the U.S. experienced an increase of 17.5% in exports from 2021 to 2022. As is typical, almost half of Ohio’s exports went to Canada and Mexico.
- In 2022, the average annual pay in manufacturing increased to $70,003 from $66,944 in 2021, a 4.6% increase.
- At 17.5%, manufacturing’s contribution to Ohio’s GDP in 2022 (among all private industries) continued to be significantly greater than that of any other industry sector.
- Almost 15% of all (unemployment insurance covered) Ohio workers were employed in manufacturing in 2022. Only the health care and social assistance sector had greater employment among Ohio’s private sectors.
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Manufacturing Resources to Help You Plan Your Future
If you’re interested in learning more about careers in manufacturing, the following resources are excellent starting points:
- Manufacturing Counts
- Dayton Region Manufacturers Association (DRMA)
- Making Ohio
- Ohio Manufacturer’s Association (OMA)
Educational Resources
Manufacturing isn’t just a career—it’s an opportunity to shape the future with innovation, problem-solving, and hands-on skills. As demand continues to grow, there’s never been a better time to explore the exciting possibilities in this vital industry.