We’ve discussed manufacturing myths in the past, including how people perceive the industry as dangerous and for the unskilled. We proved those myths false and now we’re back again to debunk another batch of myths.
Myth – Manufacturing is a Dead-End Career
Manufacturing is a great career choice for a lot of people! Far from leading to dead-end jobs, many people find themselves climbing up the ladder and receiving great opportunities to further their careers.
Take the Assembler career pathway, for example. You could start in the entry-level position of Electromechanical Equipment Assembler and, through hard work and dedication, find yourself becoming a Team Leader and even someday the Director of Engineering. These opportunities for growth and career advancement are becoming more frequent due to the amount of Baby Boomers retiring, meaning more skilled manufacturers are getting the chance to excel.
Myth – The Manufacturing Industry is in Decline
Manufacturing is far from being in decline. In fact, it’s booming in Massachusetts. In December 2021, when many industries were crippled by the pandemic, there were an average of 240,000 manufacturing employees in Massachusetts. The only concern is a potential labor shortage due to so many skilled workers starting to retire. However, this is actually a golden opportunity for you to join the workforce and climb up the ladder more quickly, as skilled workers are now in demand.
Myth – Manufacturing is for the Uneducated
People from all walks of life and education levels can find themselves thriving in a manufacturing career. It’s a great industry for people fresh out of high school who don’t want to go to college, but there are also many with college degrees who find manufacturing to be an excellent career opportunity.
For example, Jonathan Cabrera received a degree in Arts & Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology and Business from the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY but became an Aerospace Mechanical Technician through taking Nighthawk manufacturing classes. Meanwhile, instructor Chris Speropolous has trained many students with high school degrees and GEDs who have gone on to be successful. So manufacturing can be a worthwhile career whatever your education level.
Myth – Manufacturing Jobs are Low-Paying
In Massachusetts, the minimum wage has been holding steady at $15 per hour. However, the hourly wage for entry-level positions in the manufacturing industry averages at about $20. While the wage does depend on the career pathway, it’s still a lucrative career choice, especially since most entry-level positions don’t require a college degree. With the time and experience you’ll get on the floor, as well as through training and apprenticeship programs offered by organizations like AMTEP, you could find yourself making double this with the right promotions.
Myth – No Experience is Necessary
While degrees are optional for thriving in a manufacturing career, hands-on experience is not. You’ll get experience on the job, but many companies prefer workers to come in with some training, both for the sake of safety and efficiency. This is part of why AMTEP exists. We give you the training at no cost to you, and we set you up with companies that need trained workers. This way, you get the training and the job while they get a skilled workforce right off the bat. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!
If you’re considering taking control of your career, join the manufacturing industry. Sign up for one of our classes and get started on a lifelong career.