River Parishes Community College (RPCC) celebrated National Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) last month with two interactive events at its Gonzales and Reserve campuses, introducing eighth-grade students to the exciting career opportunities available in manufacturing, skilled trades, and Louisiana's growing industrial workforce.
Approximately 902 eighth-grade students from Ascension Parish and St. John the Baptist Parish schools were scheduled to participate across the two events, which brought together local educators, business and industry, and RPCC faculty and staff to showcase the skills, technology, and training that power today's manufacturing industries.
Throughout the events, students had opportunities to explore career pathways through hands-on demonstrations, industry exhibits, and conversations with professionals working in the field. From learning about advanced manufacturing technologies to discovering the technical skills required for high-demand careers, Manufacturing Day offered students an early look at the possibilities available to them after high school.
“Events like Manufacturing Day provide students with valuable opportunities to see firsthand how classroom learning connects to real-world careers,” said RPCC Chancellor Quintin D. Taylor. “By bringing education and industry together, we can help students explore new possibilities, discover their interests, and better understand the opportunities available right here in the river parishes.”
At both campuses, RPCC faculty and staff helped bring these career pathways to life through demonstrations and activities highlighting the college's technical and workforce training programs. Students also had the opportunity to engage with local industry representatives, gaining insight into the careers, skills, and educational opportunities available throughout the region.
“Manufacturing Day gives students an opportunity to see beyond the classroom and experience various career possibilities across multiple industries,” said Tarie Roberson, RPCC’s Associate Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement. “Through partnerships with local schools and industry leaders, we’re able to connect students with the people, technology, and career pathways that are helping shape our region’s future. We want students to recognize that these opportunities are right here in their own communities.”
The events were made possible through the generous support of business and industry partners. RPCC extends its appreciation to the following event sponsors for their support:
- BASF, Platinum Sponsor of the Gonzales event
- Marathon, Platinum Sponsor of the Reserve event
- Vale
- Louisiana Chemical Association
- OxyChem
- Methanex
- Ascension Credit Union
- CF Industries
- Hyundai POSCO Louisiana Steel
- Nucor
- Ascension Clean Energy
In addition to these sponsors, numerous business and industry partners participated in the events, sharing their expertise, showcasing career opportunities, and helping students better understand the industries that drive the regional economy.
RPCC also recognizes the dedication of its faculty and staff, whose efforts were instrumental in making both events possible. From coordinating activities and welcoming visiting schools to volunteering their time and leading hands-on demonstrations, employees across the college helped create meaningful experiences for participating students.
Through initiatives like Manufacturing Day, RPCC continues to strengthen connections between education and industry while helping young students discover the many educational and career pathways available close to home.