October is Manufacturing Month, and here in Northeast Minnesota, we're celebrating something extraordinary: the incredible growth and transformation of our regional Tour of Manufacturing!

From Separate Paths to One Powerful Journey

The Northeast MN Tour of Manufacturing has evolved into a truly regional powerhouse. Last year marked a milestone as two separate tours merged into one unified experience, bringing together students from across the Arrowhead containing two Perkins consortiums. In 2024, through partnership with the Area Partnership for Economic Expansion (APEX), we coordinated the first truly regional tour supporting both True North Stars and Lake Superior Perkins Consortiums, along with a dedicated planning committee including staff from the Minesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The result? Students from multiple counties gained unprecedented access to manufacturing careers right in their own backyard.

2025: The Torch Has Been Passed-and the Flame Burns Brighter

This year, the tour has reached new heights! APEX handed leadership to the Arrowhead Manufacturers & Fabricators Association (AMFA), and the response has been phenomenal. We're thrilled to announce:

• Over 40 businesses opening their doors to future talent
• More than 25 schools participating across both consortiums
• Three days of tours scheduled for October 22-24, 2025
• NEW for 2025: An interactive map featuring participating businesses

These aren't mundane factory tours – students will discover cutting-edge technology, robotics, advanced manufacturing processes and high-tech careers that blend innovation with craftsmanship.

A Tool That Keeps on Giving

Here's what makes this year even more exciting: in addition to more schools and more businesses participating than years past, our new interactive map isn't just for tour week! This resource includes roadmap and career path guides, showing students and career seekers the multiple pathways into manufacturing careers. Long after October, this map will continue connecting people to job opportunities across the region. It's a year-round bridge between talent and opportunity-turning a three-day event into an ongoing resource.

Why This Matters

These tours bridge the gap between education and opportunity. Students walk through facilities where ideas become reality, where precision meets creativity, and where local companies are solving global challenges. They meet professionals who love their work and discover career paths they never knew existed.

But it's not just about students! We encourage all Minnesota manufacturers to host additional open houses and public tours. Tours are being facilitated statewide, some student focused, some public. Our communities deserve to see the incredible innovation happening right here-the advanced equipment, the skilled workforce, and the products that put Minnesota on the map.

Join the Movement

The enthusiasm and growth we're witnessing tell us something important: when regions collaborate, when businesses invest in the next generation, and when educators and economic development professionals work together, amazing things happen.

The Northeast MN Tour of Manufacturing proves that Minnesota's manufacturing future is bright, innovative, and full of opportunity. We can't wait to see what next year brings!

Employers, want to learn more? Contact your regional workforce strategy consultant to explore how your business can participate in future tours or host community open houses.