For Immediate Release:
Contact: Lisa Shanley, Director of Communications
Paw Paw, MI – According to the National Association of Manufacturers, the U.S. is projected to face a shortfall of 1.9 million manufacturing workers by 2033. This projected shortage is getting attention on the global stage as well. At the 2025 World Economic Forum, manufacturing leaders were asked, “How do we build and secure the manufacturing workforce of the future?”
It’s an important question and a challenge that Paw Paw High School is embracing through a new partnership with the SME Education Foundation through their signature program, SME PRIME®, The SME Education Foundation is the philanthropic arm of SME, the nonprofit committed to building and expanding North America’s manufacturing talent. Paw Paw High School students will now have the unique opportunity to engage in innovative training in advanced manufacturing. Guided by input from private industry, SME PRIME creates customized manufacturing and engineering programs in high schools nationwide. The program provides essential resources such as equipment, curriculum, teacher training, student scholarships, funding for extracurricular activities, and support for long-term sustainability.
“SME PRIME paves the way for students to gain real-world, in-demand skills that lead to rewarding careers in Michigan’s growing advanced manufacturing industry,” said Rob Luce, vice president of the SME Education Foundation. “We’re proud to partner with local educators and manufacturers to close the skills gap and build a more resilient workforce. We’re also grateful to the State of Michigan for its trust and support in helping to inspire, prepare, and support the next generation of manufacturing and engineering talent.”
In addition to the SME PRIME program, Paw Paw High School is undergoing exciting physical transformations as well. To prepare for the launch of SME PRIME, Paw Paw High School’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) Lab has been completely renovated. The renovated space features new manufacturing equipment, flexible modern furniture, and a more efficient use of space designed to encourage innovation and collaboration. Also underway at the high school is the construction of a new multipurpose addition that will host large events such as robotics, cheer, band, and athletic competitions. At a time when students have many educational choices, the programs and enhancements at Paw Paw High School make it a highly appealing option for families in our area.”
“It’s our vision as a district to be united with our community to build success,” said Paw Paw Public Schools Superintendent Jeremy Davison. “The SME PRIME® program not only helps our students gain hands-on experience that aligns with our core values of success and innovation but also sets our district apart as we work with SME PRIME® and our local manufacturing partners to prepare students for meaningful careers in the manufacturing workforce.”
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