The Raymond Corporation hosts students for onsite tours and demonstrations on National Manufacturing Day, highlighting the importance of skills development and innovation in the manufacturing industry
The Raymond Corporation kicks off its tenth annual celebration of National Manufacturing Day with both on-site and online events today. National Manufacturing Day is an annual celebration of the manufacturing industry organized by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) since 2012.
The Raymond Corporation’s 2024 Manufacturing Day onsite event was held today at the Greene, NY facility. This year’s in-person event focused on showcasing innovation to high school students through interactive displays, hands-on activities, and firsthand insights from professionals working in these fields. Students had the opportunity to learn about building skills for the future through a manufacturing facility tour and demonstrations of forklifts, welding, and paint simulators. Students also had the chance to talk with Raymond employees who work in manufacturing.
Students attending Raymond’s onsite Manufacturing Day event learned about the exciting and highly skilled careers available in manufacturing, including:
- A presentation from Tony Topencik, vice president of operations, quality, environmental health and safety
- An interactive employee presentation
- Interactive demonstrations provide a hands-on experience with forklift, welding, paint simulators, and Raymond technology products, including the iWAREHOUSE® suite of products, Virtual Reality simulator, and automation
- A tour of Raymond’s world-class, award-winning manufacturing facility
- Opportunities to learn about available job opportunities in manufacturing at Raymond
- Lunch with Raymond employees who work in manufacturing
Raymond will also host an online Manufacturing Day program to help teachers and high school students learn more about future careers in modern manufacturing. Students will be able to learn about building skills for the future through a virtual manufacturing facility tour, highlights of industry technology, and various online activities. Schools can register to attend this event at www.raymondcorp.com/
“We’re excited to showcase the advancements happening at both Raymond and in material handling. We hope to spark curiosity in the next generation and encourage them to pursue a career in this growing industry,” said Tony Topencik, vice president of operations, quality, environmental health, and safety at The Raymond Corporation. “Skilled workers will always be in demand to ensure the smooth operation of our supply chains. That’s why Raymond is committed to creating a supportive environment where employees can thrive and shape the future of manufacturing.”
For over 100 years, Raymond has been a leader in manufacturing, engineering, and the material handling industry, recognized for its leadership and innovation through various awards over the years, including:
- Forbes Best Midsize Employer, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
- Plant Engineering Product of the Year Award, 2020, 2023 and 2024
- Food Shippers of America Top Food Chain Technology Award, 2023, 2024
“By prioritizing innovation and development of the next generation of manufacturing leaders at Raymond, we provide them with the necessary resources to effectively drive change within the supply chain,” said Randy Wolken, president and CEO at Manufacturers Association of Central New York. “We’re proud to support their journey as they shape the future of this dynamic industry in our state.”
“As technology evolves, particularly with advancements in AI, big data, and sustainable practices, engaging and investing in students is increasingly crucial for our industry,” said Michael Field, president and CEO The Raymond Corporation. “By inspiring these young minds with a passion for innovation and equipping them with skills in these growing areas such as big data, AI advancements, and sustainable practices early on, we’re able to ensure a pipeline of skilled talent that’s ready to drive our industry forward with both technological and environmental responsibility.”
For more than 100 years, Raymond has built a reputation as an innovative and future-forward organization. Raymond is actively contributing to developing next-generation energy resources, shaping the future for modern manufacturing, and leading the industry in sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
