GENEVA – Students from Oswego High School visited Geneva's Smith & Richardson Manufacturers Friday to find out more about career possibilities in manufacturing.
Along with the students, State Rep. Keith Wheeler (R-Oswego) and State Senator Jim Oberweis (R-Sugar Grove) toured the facility, learning about manufacturing processes from decades-old machines to the latest computerized components the shop uses.
"Manufacturing has been key in Illinois' economy and there's so much the state could do to make it easier for companies like this to grow and hire more workers," State Rep. Wheeler said after the tour.
There is a dire need for more precision machinists and precision stampers for companies like Smith & Richardson as more and more Baby Boomers retire.
"Manufacturing is a great field for high schoolers to consider," said William Loftus, who teaches woodwork and automotives at Oswego High School. "These are good careers with plenty of openings and respectable salaries."
Manufacturing companies throughout the nation held tours with special emphasis Friday.
Schaumburg-based Technology & Manufacturing Association – which offers career training for various aspects of technological training, participated in the effort throughout the Chicago area.
