The field of manufacturing is constantly evolving. If you have an interest in this exciting and ever-evolving field, you may be curious to learn more about manufacturing management and production management. These careers sound important, but what does it all mean? What is manufacturing management? What is production management? What do you need to do to land one of these roles?

Whether you already work in manufacturing and want to advance your career, or are just starting to pursue this field, you may be curious to learn about the different managerial roles within manufacturing. Read on, as we explore these important titles and highlight the importance of earning a manufacturing management degree for your future success.

What is Production Management?

Production managers oversee all the manufacturing activities within an organization, to ensure production goals and quality standards are met. They are responsible for technical management, supervision, and control of the production process. Production managers often work in settings such as manufacturing and industrial plants. They typically develop budgets, approve expenditures for materials and supplies, and review production orders.

Production managers enjoy successful careers with solid financial rewards. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Industrial Production Managers earned a median annual salary of $105,480 in 2019.

What is Manufacturing Management?

Much like production management, manufacturing management is all about overseeing the production of a manufacturing facility. Manufacturing managers plan, schedule, and direct an efficient layout of equipment and flow of materials. Being a manufacturing manager means ensuring that manufacturing performance, volume, and quality goals are met. According to Payscale.com, the average manufacturing manager salary is $86,065.

How to Become a Manager in Manufacturing and Production

To become a production manager or manufacturing manager, you will need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as Goodwin’s Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Management. In addition, among some employers, you may need at least five years of experience in manufacturing. A career-focused manufacturing school like Goodwin University can offer you specialized training and hands-on experience, designed to prepare you for this kind of position.

The Manufacturing Management degree at Goodwin covers important elements of leadership and technical skills in this important industry, such as:

• Operations management
• Industrial safety
• Production planning and control
• Purchasing
• Quality management
• Team dynamics

Through the Manufacturing Management program, you will learn how to supervise workers, processes, and equipment within the manufacturing environment. Additionally, you will develop skills through dedicated areas of study and elective coursework options. Once you’ve completed your core classes, you can take your pick between one of three concentrations: Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Machining, Quality Management Systems, or Supply Chain and Logistics. A specialized education will help you resume shine when you set out to land the role of your dreams.

In addition to earning valuable skills in manufacturing management, you will also have the opportunity to gain national recognized credentials from the Manufacturing Skill Standard Council, such as:

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

At Goodwin, we understand that choosing to pursue a postsecondary degree can be challenging. You need to balance work and family life and find the time to study. This is why we make it as accommodating as possible. The manufacturing management degree is convenient for working students. Classes are offered online or in a hybrid format between online and on-campus. The classes offered on campus are available days or evenings. Some classes are offered at an accelerated 7 ½ week pace, for those who want to start working fast.

Once you’ve earned your degree, you can rest assured that Goodwin can continue to help make sure you find success. Our Career Services Team is available to students and graduates for free, for life. From resume writing and networking to interview practice, we can assist you with whatever you need in search of your dream job. We don’t stop until you are working in a career that you love.

Are ready to take the next step and earn your manufacturing management degree? Learn more about our program by calling 1-800-889-3282 or visit us online: goodwin.edu to request more information.