Capturing an unnoticed generation

Toward the end of the school year, the local chamber of commerce requested our shop’s participation in a job fair at our high school. As it turned out, the event focused on special education students, but, interestingly, most of them weren’t noticeably different from the other students. I was told most suffer from a learning disability, from minimal to more serious, but they were all eventually going to graduate and seek a productive future, like most students do. 

This was the school’s first time hosting the event and I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, after talking to at least 100 students that day, I realized I was meeting many future shop candidates.

As it turned out, we were the only machine shop participating, and even the only industrial-related company present. Most were health-care centers, restaurant chains, banks and credit unions, and a few others. Undoubtedly all good companies, but it was evident that many of these kids will seek employment in the community’s various shops and industrial warehouses and they were anxious to hear about potential opportunities. 

Some had taken woodworking, CAD or other manufacturing-related classes, and we discussed the benefits of that knowledge. Many told me their relatives worked in a shop, and they wanted to learn how they should prepare. I was more than happy to offer positive information about the world of manufacturing. Most were receptive and willing to hear my advice, looking at me as a mature man with considerable wisdom to share. It was humbling because I still consider myself a novice compared to others in the industry. 

The reality is that these special education students tend to be part of a forgotten group—not the sports or academic stars and not at the bottom either. A few go to college, but most don’t. They seemed like a vulnerable group yearning for an opportunity. Thankfully, there are teachers and school staff who are concerned about their future and want them to find jobs that will make them valuable. 

If things don’t work out well, they’re also more likely to become disenchanted and lose confidence in their abilities. This doesn’t mean shops like ours are obligated to teach them about life and hire them whether needed or not. But it’s imperative they aren’t overlooked in the rush to find proven candidates. After spending 4 hours speaking with them, I realized they need some attention too. They want an opportunity to produce something and machine shops may be an option for some. 

Many asked about part-time or menial jobs, and I encouraged them, giving them insight on where to begin. I stressed the importance of basics, such as arriving on time, having a positive attitude and a willingness to start at the bottom. I assured them that excelling at basic skills will get them noticed and open other doors. I assured them that even if they don’t like a situation, the lessons learned from it are still worthwhile and can be applied to the next opportunity. And I assured them that manufacturing is a great field to pursue, with the vast number of shops, warehouses and related businesses that stretch across our region. In the end, this job fair showed me that these students’ positive attitude and excitement about their lives is refreshing, and they taught me a few things as well. So, be on the lookout—these kids could become a valuable asset to your shop and mine. They deserve a shot.