Careers in this cluster range from production of goods and services to engineering and management roles. Automation is transforming many existing jobs while also creating new roles that involve more problem solving, data analysis, and overseeing advanced technology.
Explore careers by their typical level of education below. When you click on a career title, you'll find a full occupation profile with average pay and other details, plus links to local training programs that can help you prepare.
High school diploma or less, plus some training
A short training course or on-the-job experience can help you qualify for these jobs. Often, new hires can earn a technical certificate on the job that helps them get promoted.
Industrial machinery mechanics
Welders
Machinists
Chemical plant operators
Food cooking machine operators
Short-term certificate or associate’s degree
One to two years of training can open the door to a manufacturing career in many fields.
CNC tool programmers
Aerospace engineering technicians
Mechanical drafters
Robotics technicians
Chemical technicians
Photonics technicians
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are great ways to earn a wage while gaining recognized credentials for a career. An apprenticeship is a paid work-based training program that combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. Visit Apprenticeship.gov and select "Advanced manufacturing" to learn more.
Bachelor's degree
Earning a four-year degree can qualify you for careers that offer more responsibility and higher pay. Many of these roles include management, planning, or design tasks.
Industrial engineers
Industrial production managers
Water resource specialists
Quality control analysts
Commercial and industrial designers