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Parents & Teachers
The Silver Crescent Foundation is committed to preparing students today to take their place as leaders and innovators in the workplace of tomorrow. By encouraging students to focus on science, math, technology and engineering, we can prepare them for a bright future and eliminate what New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman has called the “quiet crisis”— the erosion of America’s science and engineering base. Friedman says that science and engineering have always been the source of American innovation and our rising standard of living. America’s brain power has developed an extraordinary list of products that we now take for granted. From cell phones and microwave ovens to satellites and high-speed computer chips, U.S. manufacturing companies have harnessed the talents of our best and brightest to make our lives better. But manufacturers are at a serious crossroads. A shortage of skilled workers might bring America’s largest economic engine to a screeching halt. Teachers and parents aren’t encouraging young people to pursue careers in manufacturing for several reasons, including visions of manual labor and assembly lines of the past, the perceived threat of outsourcing and layoffs, and a lack of exposure to the benefits of manufacturing. Manufacturing is a rewarding and high-paying career path. Advanced manufacturing requires people proficient in math and science, with good problem-solving skills, and the tech-savvy to use sophisticated equipment. The manufacturing workplace is full of complex machines, computers and tools, and it requires a highly-educated, technically competent worker. In 2007, South Carolina manufacturers paid an average wage of $43,268/year compared to the state average wage of $34,273 per year, exclusive of benefits. Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics Please use this site as a resource to learn more about manufacturing’s importance to South Carolina and your student’s future. The links on this page lead to information about ways for your students to explore careers in manufacturing through hands-on educational experiences. Now, let’s discover manufacturing!
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