Muskogee, OK – Port Muskogee has coordinated with local manufacturers and high schools to bring Manufacturing Day to many Muskogee County ninth-grade students on October 29, 2024. Working with Muskogee County professionals, Manufacturing Day aims to inspire the next generation to explore rewarding careers through a hands-on learning project using raw materials.
“Manufacturing Day is a cornerstone event for our community, opening young minds to the numerous career opportunities within Muskogee’s manufacturing sector,” said Crystal Delso, Manager of Workforce Development at Port Muskogee. “We engage ninth-grade students in hands-on roles such as civil engineers, architects, assemblers, sales professionals, and quality control experts. These experiences play a crucial role in preparing our future workforce, equipping students with essential skills for career pathway exploration.”
Manufacturing Day focuses on introducing ninth-grade students to the world of manufacturing. Providing students with insights into both the everyday products we buy and use, as well as larger items that play a significant role in our daily lives. Students will participate in a hands-on project, while benefiting from the expertise of manufacturing professionals. This year, students will be challenged to construct a bridge out of marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. The integrity of their structures will be tested by seeing how much weight the bridges can hold.
“Building a bridge, even with simple materials like marshmallows and spaghetti noodles, is a powerful exercise in critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork,” said Chris Wallace, District Engineer at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. “I know firsthand how these skills are essential not just in engineering but in everyday problem-solving and collaboration.”
Eight different schools are participating this year, including Muskogee Public Schools, Fort Gibson Public Schools, Hilldale Public Schools, Checotah Public Schools, Warner Public Schools, Porter Consolidated Schools, Oktaha Public Schools and Braggs Public Schools. There are approximately 925 ninth-grade students who will take part in Manufacturing Day in Muskogee County this year.
“Manufacturing Day gives our students a unique opportunity to explore the world of manufacturing firsthand,” said Jennifer Campbell, Principal of Checotah High School. “It inspires them to think creatively and understand the vital role manufacturing plays in our community and the world around them.”
The volunteers include employees from various companies and manufacturers in Muskogee. Many manufacturers from the local community are coming together to support and provide their expertise to these ninth-grade students. The companies participating in Manufacturing Day include Georgia-Pacific, Indian Capital Technology Center, Custom Seating, Port Muskogee, V&S Schuler, Oklahoma Interpak, Advantage Controls, Small Business Development Center, ACME, APAC-Central, Oklahoma Manufacturers Alliance, Oklahoma Gas and Electric, Vallourec and the City of Muskogee Foundation.
“This event is essential for students’ futures because it provides them with practical, real-world experiences that go beyond traditional classroom learning,” said TyJuan Walker, Chair of the Greater Muskogee Manufacturers Alliance. “By engaging in interactive projects and working directly with industry professionals, students gain valuable skills and insights that are crucial for their personal and professional development. Additionally, the event fosters creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are essential skills for any future career.”
Manufacturing Day not only highlights the importance of the manufacturing sector but also showcases the collaborative spirit of the Muskogee community. By bringing together local manufacturers, educators and students, this initiative paves the way for a brighter future, filled with skilled professionals ready to innovate and lead.
