On Saturday, March 28, 2015, high school students, their parents, and educators from across the region will gather at ManuFest 2015 to learn about one of the hottest employment sectors for the next generation: manufacturing.

                While manufacturing employers struggle to fill open positions with qualified candidates, the vast, growing, well-paid opportunities available in manufacturing remain virtually unknown to the next generation of the workforce. The Montgomery County Commerce Department and the Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board, in partnership with MidAtlantic Employers' Association, have teamed up to change that.

                "Manufacturing is an exciting, high-tech field with a broad array of career pathways, including design, sales, marketing, engineering, accounting, and more. With ManuFest, we're hoping to introduce young people to these possibilities," explains Josh Shapiro, Chair, Montgomery County Board of Commissioners.

                Now in its second year, the free event will include demonstrations of products made right here in our region, as well as opportunities to hear from and speak with leaders in various manufacturing areas. The day includes separate sessions geared toward parents and educators. Keynote speaker Robb Armstrong, JumpStart Cartoonist, will add a jolt of energy to power the day.

                "We had great feedback from last year's event," Shapiro said. "We're looking forward to an even better event this year."

                ManuFest 2015 will be held at Souderton High School, Souderton. Free busing is available for students and adults in Montgomery County school districts, courtesy of the Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board.

                To register, please go to www.manufest.org.