MadeByMe Careers for Students

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Good Pay. Great Future.

Northeast Indiana is home to hundreds of manufacturers and a thriving construction sector. These industries are building parts for cars, aircraft, medical devices, and more, while construction professionals shape the homes and businesses in our communities. These hands-on careers require skill and training, offer competitive pay, and play a vital role in improving the quality of life in Allen County.

  • Great Pay

  • High Demand

  • Career Variety

  • Community Impact

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    Thousands of Open Jobs Await

    With 27% of Allen County’s manufacturing workforce and 23% of its construction workforce nearing retirement, your skills are needed now more than ever. Over the next decade, nearly 34,000 job openings in production and construction are projected across Allen County.

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    Careers in Manufacturing

    Manufacturing today is a world apart from the factories of the past. It’s a dynamic, high-tech industry where innovation happens every day. Modern manufacturing careers put you at the forefront of technology, working with robotics, precision machinery, and advanced systems to create products that impact lives around the globe. These roles are fast-paced, highly skilled, and offer excellent opportunities for growth and advancement.

    Here are just a few exciting pathways where you can build a rewarding future:

    • Automation and Robotics

      Design, program, and maintain robots and automated systems.

      Cool Fact: Industrial robots are in high demand, especially in the automotive industry.

    • Welding

      Join metals using heat, pressure, or cutting-edge tech like lasers.

      Why It’s Awesome: Welding skills are versatile, and you can work in factories, workshops, or construction sites.

    • Industrial Maintenance

      Keep machinery running by installing, repairing, and maintaining equipment.

      In Demand: Knowledge of welding, hydraulics, and electrical systems is key!

    • CNC Precision Machining

      Create precise parts using computer-controlled machines.

      Why It’s Cool: You’ll turn raw materials into intricate, high-tech components.

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      Careers in Skilled Trades

      If you enjoy working with your hands and bringing ideas to life, a career in the skilled trades could be your perfect fit. These roles let you build, design, and repair essential structures and systems, shaping the homes, businesses, and communities around you. From carpentry to electrical work, plumbing to HVAC, skilled trades offer the chance to create something tangible every day while earning competitive pay and building a secure future.

      • Carpentry

        Build everything from homes to ornate trim work.

        Hot Tip: “Finish carpenters,” who specialize in detailed woodwork, are in high demand.

      • Plumbing

        Install and maintain pipes for water, drainage, and irrigation.

        Did You Know? Plumbers can also specialize in designing blueprints and systems.

      • Electrician

        Install and maintain wiring in homes, businesses, and even machinery.

        Specialization: Focus on residential, commercial, or industrial systems.

      • HVAC Technician

        Work on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in homes, schools, and offices.

        Why It Matters: You’ll help keep buildings comfortable year-round.

        Why Start Now?

        Aging Workforce: With nearly 1 in 4 skilled workers retiring soon, companies need YOU to step up.

        Opportunities Everywhere: Skilled jobs can’t be outsourced, so your skills will always be in demand.

        Your Future Starts Here

        Hands-on careers are the backbone of our community, and with the right skills and training, you can make a difference while building a great future for yourself. Explore your options, get the training you need, and be ready to join a high-tech, in-demand workforce!

        How to Explore These Careers

        Find What Fits Your Strengths: Are you tech-savvy? Try robotics or CNC machining. Love problem-solving? Explore industrial maintenance or HVAC.

        Learn and Train: Many jobs require specialized training, so look into local programs or apprenticeships.

        Talk to Experts: Reach out to manufacturers or trade professionals to learn about their daily work.

        Learn more about construction careersExplore local training opportunities