BY STACI WILSON

Over 180 students took part in this year’s Careers in Manufacturing Day hosted by the Northern Tier Industry & Education Consortium (NTIEC) at Elk Lake High School on Thursday.

The manufacturers on hand came from aerospace, lumber, high-tech machining, bluestone, and consumer sectors. Post-high school vocational schools also attended to answer questions from students.

Rosemary and Will Franssen, of Golis Machine in Montrose, produce high-tech parts for the aerospace and medical industries.

Their products have to meet an “intense quality control” standard, Rosemary said.

They often don’t know where their parts end up but recently, Will spied a Golis Machine part on the cover of a magazine – part of a next-generation engine.

Will told the students that math skills were essential, as well as communication skills and an interest in hands-on work.

Scott Casey of Lockheed Martin in Archbald said the students were interested in learning about the industry. Lockheed Martin is the largest defense contractor in the world, Casey said.

He advised the students to really find out if they are interested in manufacturing careers. He also noted the importance of math, as well as mechanical aptitude; and added that there are more than manufacturing jobs available at the facility.

Marlene Butler of NTIEC noted that the employers also have accounting, secretarial and management personnel on staff in addition to the manufacturers.

Students from all the local school districts and the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center attended.

Groups spent time with the various manufacturing representatives learning about the types of employment available and the skills needed to get those jobs.

Following the presentations, the manufacturers were presented with a certificate of appreciation from NTIEC.

Lunch for the participants was provided by the SCCTC culinary arts students.