Manufacturing continues to be a booming industry here in the United States. Thanks to advancements in technology, manufacturers are forging ahead with rapid production rates every year. Whether you are a seasoned manufacturing worker, or looking to jump into this exciting, hands-on field, you may be wondering how to become a manufacturing manager.

Manufacturers in Connecticut account for more than a considerable portion of the state’s economy. In fact, this sector employs nearly 10% of the state’s workforce. This means that there is plenty opportunity for those interested in becoming leaders in the industry.

If you are wondering how to become a manufacturing manager, read on. Here, we will break down the steps it takes to land this role, and how you can find success by pursuing a manufacturing management degree.

1. Start with an Education

The first step to take in becoming a manufacturing manager is education. As an industry, manufacturing is seeking educated and highly skilled workers more than ever. According to the 2017 Survey of Connecticut Manufacturing Workforce Needs, only about one-third of manufacturing companies are willing to hire applicants with a technical school degree, while nearly half – 42 percent – prefer candidates with postsecondary education. Employers are looking for those who have received intensive training at the college level.

Attending a college program does not always mean that you need to earn a four-year, bachelor’s degree. Depending on your career goals and personal timeline, you may choose to pursue a certificate or associate degree instead, and work your way up the ranks at your organization. Sometimes, experience can lead to career advancement and managerial roles.

At a manufacturing school like Goodwin University, there are several certificates and associate degree programs offered within the manufacturing umbrella. Depending upon your interests, you may choose to focus on a specialty within the field, such as:

• CNC Machining
• Welding
• Mechatronics
• Quality Management

Through any one of these programs, you may jump into the field quickly and work your way toward a management position. These types of programs offer a combination of hands-on learning and in-class instruction, showing potential employers that you are well-trained and qualified for a position at a manufacturing plant.

However, it is important to know that a growing number of management positions today do require a bachelor’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial production managers typically need a bachelor’s education, combined with several years of experience, to land this role. This level of education can pay off. Industrial production managers, one of the most common types of manufacturing managers, earned a median salary of $108,790 in 2020.

If you are already working in manufacturing, or you are looking to become a manager more quickly after graduating, a manufacturing management degree is also a great option for you. This bachelor’s degree program prepares students to become leaders and oversee manufacturing facilities straight out of the gate. Students of this degree program become experts of the following areas:

• Safety Standards
• Quality Control
• Customer Service
• Supervision
• Scheduling Skills
• Logistics
• Teamwork

In addition to the preparation and training through these 121 credits, manufacturing management students gain nationally recognized credentials from the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) including:

• Certified Production Technician (CPT) credential
• Green Manufacturing credential
• Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)
• Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) credential

Just because you are choosing a manufacturing management program does not mean you cannot find a specialty within the field. Students at Goodwin can choose between the following concentrations:

• CNC Machining
• Quality Management Systems
• Supply Chain and Logistics

There is also flexibility built in with a manufacturing management school like Goodwin’s. Students can choose from on-campus classes – offered days and evenings – or hybrid formats of online and on-campus courses. Classes are also offered in the standard 15-week or accelerated 7 1/2 -week formats for added flexibility.

2. Gain Experience in the Field

Once you have earned your degree or certificate, you may pursue a career within manufacturing. Manufacturing students at Goodwin learn by doing, studying in state-of-the-art facilities so they are prepared for the work inside a manufacturing plant. Upon graduation, students are ready to continue their education in the field.

When you leave your manufacturing management school and enter the workforce, you should be equipped with the skills needed for success, such as:

• Communication skills
• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Analytical skills
• Computer application experience
• Mechanical and technical skills
• Manual dexterity

3. Make – and Maintain – Connections

Another benefit of earning manufacturing degree or certificate is the networking opportunities offered. Goodwin is a leader in manufacturing education, with professors who are industry experts and working with manufacturing companies around the state.

The connections at the school can help students launch their careers upon graduation. This connection can also carry through for the many years following graduation. The Career Services Team can help students with a range of professional needs, from resume writing to interviewing practice. This service is free for students and alumni, and the staff works tirelessly to ensure students are placed with jobs they love.

These are the key steps in becoming a manufacturing manager today and, as you can see, education is the ticket forward. If you are interested in learning how to become a manufacturing manager, consider earning a career-focused degree in manufacturing management. This is a program entirely tailored to your dream career, with courses to help you excel in all facets of management, such as:

• Manufacturing Logistics
• Manufacturing Accounting
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• Facilities and Planning
• Operations Management
• Industrial Safety
• And more!

Are you ready to pursue your dreams? Work your way up the ranks in manufacturing by pursuing a degree or certificate program. Learn more about the programs offered at Goodwin University by calling 800-889-3282 or visiting us online to request more information.