A new program aims to promote high-tech manufacturing careers in high schools across Western New York. Dream it, Do it WNY educates high school students that there are more careers available in the area than meets the eye.
The educational program was started several years ago by National Association of Manufacturers, but really only took off this year as those who work in the profession are reaching the age of retirement.
The Charter School for Applied Technology in Buffalo was the first school in the area to sign on to the program. Guidance Counselor Reuben Owens said it’s important for students to learn about manufacturing careers as early as possible.
“Definitely the main reason is the financial aspect. A lot of our students are on free or reduced lunch, which shows that they don’t have a high household income, so for them to go straight to college threes going to be a little expense to it. A lot of my students know I’m a realist and so I would hate to see my students to go to school start off in college, go for two years, not finish and get stuck with that bill,” said Owens.
Owens said this way students can get their feet wet in the job market and decide what they want to do. He said the school is promoting the high-tech careers through class presentations, field trips and internships. They are also learning that there are a lot of misconceptions about manufacturing.
“The old thought process of a manufacturer of factory is it’s a lot of nity grity work and you come out all greasy. But now it’s a lot of technology and computer based programs and the individual just runs the machine. So we went over to the GM plant and they actually had a chance to see the engine being built and they were in awe,” said Owens.
Owens said the program also strides to keep young people from moving out of state to find jobs. The push for the program came after local manufacturers reported a severe shortage in qualified workers.
Dream It, Do It is a combined effort of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, the National Association of Manufacturers and the Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance.
The program has continued to expand throughout Chautauqua, Alleghany, Erie, Cattaraugus and Niagara counties since 2009. DIDI WNY is supported by the WNY Regional Economic Development (REDC) through a $500,000, three-year grant for the five counties. The grant is structured to match private-sector dollars, so fundraising will support the program.
