As the Austin metro continues to grow, so too does the region’s advanced manufacturing industry.
To address the growing demand for skilled workers, local workforce development leaders will host MFG JOBS NOW, a free two-day Austin hiring event taking place both in-person and virtually August 11 and virtually August 12.
The in-person event on August 11 will run from 9am-2pm at Workforce Solutions Capital Area’s North career center. The virtual event runs August 11-12 from 10am-4pm.
To register, job seekers and companies can visit https://wfscapitalarea.com/mfgjobsnow.
MFG JOBS NOW will connect Central Texas students and job seekers to manufacturing employers hiring now, including Applied Materials, Carr Lane, HID Global, Premier Research Labs, and Senox, and more.
“The Austin region has some of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the world. The industry has seen strong growth even during the pandemic, and right now, these employers need talent,” said Ed Latson, executive director of ARMA — the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association. “There are career options for everyone, including roles on the factory floor, like making products, operating machines, or ensuring that equipment performs effectively. There are also interesting opportunities in finance, marketing, sales, business development, and more.”
The event will also link residents to pathways to rapidly train for these in-demand careers at no cost. This includes the six-week Certified Production Technician (CPT) training program, offered by Austin Community College and Skillpoint Alliance, which provides industry-recognized certifications for residents to begin working in a variety of manufacturing roles. Workforce Solutions Capital Area provides hiring assistance to connect grads with local manufacturers.
“For those who are underemployed, unemployed or seeking a career change, we can rapidly prepare residents for a career in manufacturing. Our end goal is to get those who complete training straight into a job in the field,” said Kevin Brackmeyer, executive director at Skillpoint Alliance.
“With our region’s manufacturing in such high demand, we receive more inquiries for jobs than we have students,” said Dr. Laura Marmolejo, chair of the Advanced Manufacturing Department at Austin Community College. “Many times, our CPT training students will get hired before they’re even done with our courses.”
Job seekers at the event can also find out if they’re eligible for child care assistance and additional financial supports while they train or look for a job.
“Workforce Solutions Capital Area’s services and supports prepare residents of all backgrounds for higher-paying careers,” said Tamara Atkinson, chief executive officer at Workforce Solutions Capital Area. “Now is the time to train for a job with long-term earning potential in this high-demand industry.”
Manufacturing industry wages start around $32,000 annually, with an industry average of $90,000.
MFG JOBS NOW is headed up by the Austin Regional Manufacturer’s Association and the Central Texas Manufacturing Partnership, partnering with Workforce Solutions Capital Area, Austin Community College, and Skillpoint Alliance. The event is sponsored by Randstad.
Workforce Solutions Capital Area Workforce Board is the publicly-funded workforce board for Austin-Travis County. Through strong partnerships and strategic collaborations, Workforce Solutions is leading the region’s workforce system in the development of a world-class workforce.
