Embarking upon opportunities that are endless, is what more than 200 students from Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) career technical education (CTE) program experienced at LM Manufacturing, just a day before the annual Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) on Thursday October 5, 2023.

Manufacturing Day is celebrated by manufacturing companies and gives them a platform to showcase and entice students to learn about the opportunities associated with this industry. Students received a fun and interactive behind the scenes look in the LM Manufacturing facility by touring the plant, receiving quick training to experience a hands-on demonstration which was just enough to whet their appetites.  Owner Sylvester Hester is on a mission to give back to DPSCD students and ignite the future workforce in Detroit.

In a brief ceremonial event to kick off the MFG Day festivities, Operation Manager Mesh McFerrin shared a motivational message with DPSCD students, “You can do whatever you put your mind to, you just have to take the time and get serious about your future. The time is now.”

Students from Breithaupt CTC, Cody, East English Village Preparatory Academy at Finney, Golightly CTE, Henry Ford, Randolph CTC and Western International engaged in a six-station tutorial at the plant, where workers volunteered to assist the students representing the various career paths available.

“I really enjoyed my field trip to the LM plant. I learned so much about the company, like what they do, how they do it, and the job opportunities you can have. This is my first time here and it looks amazing,” says Jesus Guerrero senior at Breithaupt.

Senior, Cora Hibbler said, “I was surprised to see an entire plant led by people that were so young, who looked like me! In just a few years, that’s going to be me!”

Shawn Hill, Deputy Executive Director of College and Career Readiness, DPSCD, said partnerships with companies such as LM Manufacturing provide awareness to career opportunities and exposure to people, products and the process.

“Additionally, students have the opportunity to receive certificates within industries of their choice which can lead to future job placement opportunities,” said Hill.

We found a student who had experienced just that.

“This program helps you to learn the basics of cars. You learn about brakes, how to change parts, and how to diagnose different parts of the suspension, steering, brakes, and drive train. You also learn a lot of safety practices because this industry can be dangerous,” said Daniel Lopez, senior student, Breithaupt.

Lopez has received three Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. These will provide opportunities and create several career pathways.   Lopez plans to stay connected with business professionals to foster future opportunities.

For more information about how to join a DPSCD CTE program click here.