Prairie State College to Host 2025 Manufacturing Symposium on August 21

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL - The Workforce Development and Community Education division at Prairie State College (PSC), in partnership with MakeItInIllinois, will host the PSC 2025 Manufacturing Symposium on Thursday, August 21, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the PSC Conference Center.

This full-day event will bring together industry leaders, educators, and workforce development professionals to address key topics in manufacturing and workforce training.

Featured sessions include:

• Meet Drew Crowe – Manufacturing social media influencer Drew Crowe will share insights on the future of the industry.
• Employer Partnerships and Workforce Development – Highlighting how PSC and employers are addressing the skills gap.
  
• Building the Future: Attracting & Retaining Gen Z in Manufacturing – Discussing generational workforce trends and expectations.
  
  
• The Value of Apprenticeships & College Credit Programming – Demonstrating how structured pathways benefit both employers and employees.
  
• Mobile Training Centers Tour & Networking – A chance to connect with colleagues, view hands-on training equipment, and participate in informal discussion.
  

“This symposium is a crucial step in aligning education with industry needs,” said Dr. Alisha Clark, Dean of Workforce Development and Community Education at PSC. “By working directly with employers, Prairie State College is helping to strengthen the talent pipeline, address workforce shortages, and contribute to the region’s economic growth.”

The event will provide practical strategies and resources for employers, educators, and workforce professionals focused on building and sustaining a strong manufacturing workforce.

Event Details

Thursday, August 21, 2025
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Prairie State College Conference Center, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights, IL
Registration: https://lnkd.in/g_xDVqxY