New report identifies personal experience as top influencer of youth career decisions

WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, The Manufacturing Institute, in partnership with SkillsUSA and the Educational Research Center of America, released a new report identifying the characteristics of experiences that impact student career choices. The purpose of the survey is to inspire dialogue between parents, educators, counselors and students, with the goal of better aligning programs and services with students’ needs and preparing them for careers ahead.

The study found that 64 percent of students identified personal experiences as having the greatest influence over their career decisions.  The report also notes that students engaged in career and technical student organizations (CTSO) and activities are almost 50 percent more likely to pursue a technical career. Yet, less than 10 percent of students experienced internships, mentorships or cooperative education programs.

“This report gives manufacturers great insight into what drives the career choices of the next generation,” The Manufacturing Institute Executive Director Jennifer McNelly said. “Manufacturers need to give students more opportunities to experience challenging, innovative, high-tech and exciting modern day manufacturing.”

The study also finds that CTE education allows students to forge their own path, whether that is continued education or entering the workforce. Educators also note that after graduating high school, industry certificates are the most valuable educational credential.

The study has four recommendations:

1. Offer students greater opportunities to experience manufacturing and develop a familiarity with the industry.
2. Encourage more schools to participate in CTSO programs such as SkillsUSA.
3. Engage manufacturing companies in high school career and technical education programs.
4. Integrate industry credentials into the career and technical education programs.

About The Manufacturing Institute

The Manufacturing Institute (the Institute) is the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers. As a non-partisan organization, the Institute is committed to delivering leading-edge information and services to the nation’s manufacturers. The Institute is the authority on the attraction, qualification and development of world-class manufacturing talent. For more information, please visitwww.themanufacturinginstitute.org.