Westlake Students Tour Factory as part of National Manufacturing Day

WESTLAKE, OH - Manufacturing has long been the backbone of Northeast Ohio's economy. Even if the medical field has usurped its position as the most important industry in the region, manufacturing remains integral to Greater Clevelanders' identity.

Students from Westlake High School's TechMates Club recently got to participate in that proud tradition as part of National Manufacturing Day. The club visited Formtek, a metal forming company and manufacturer of fabricating machinery located in Warrensville Heights. The students were able to try a variety of activities during their visit.

National Manufacturing Day is an annual event that occurs on the first Friday of October around the country. Manufacturing Day is a coordinated occasion during which U.S. manufacturers open their doors to demonstrate the potential of modern manufacturing technology, foster interest in manufacturing careers, and expand knowledge about and improve general perception of manufacturing careers and the value to the U.S. economy.

After a tour of the Formtek facility, students were able to engage with the many companies, colleges and local schools that had exhibits and information about manufacturing and other related technology and programs. One of the more popular activities was provided by local company Lincoln Electric, where students were able to try their hand at virtual welding.

Other companies that exhibited included Alcoa, Alloy Bellows & Precision Welding, Kelly Engineering Services, Kennametal, Lydey Automation, MAGNET, Makergear, Meyer Products, NSL Analytical Services, The Proud Company and Valtronic.

Educational representatives were on hand to demonstrate and discuss their programs. They included the Akron Testing Laboratory and Welding School, College Now of Greater Cleveland, Cuyahoga Community College 3D Digital Design & Manufacturing Technology, Youth Technology Academy, and Unified Technology, Cuyahoga Valley Career Center RAMTEC, Lakeland Community College, and Mayfield High School Excel TECC.

Photos from Westlake Schools