LANSING–Small manufacturers across the state are invited to a series of events being hosted by the Manufacturing Growth Alliance to celebrate Michigan’s $105 billion manufacturing Industry during October.

National Manufacturing Day, taking place Friday, Oct. 2, is an annual event that brings together hundreds of manufacturers to host students, teachers, parents, job seekers and other local community members at open houses designed to showcase modern manufacturing technology and careers.

“At MGA, we believe in acknowledging manufacturing all month, which is why we are hosting a series of industry specific virtual conversations for Michigan manufacturers throughout the month of October,” said MGA Executive Director Jennifer Deamud. “Building awareness is just the beginning. Join us in the knowledge sharing by attending one of our industry specific roundtables with best in class solutions to some of the toughest challenges.”

There are four different events to choose from with a variety of topics including:

* Tuesday, Oct. 6: Attracting and Retaining the Right Talent, an event that will feature industry experts in inclusive hiring practices, alternative talent pools, and a manufacturer who has best practices to share regarding attracting and retaining talent.

* Tuesday, Oct. 13: Automation and Industry 4.0, which will feature a facilitated conversation with Automation Alley and two manufacturers who are engaged in bringing automation into their manufacturing plants.

* Tuesday, Oct. 20: Small Manufacturers Voice in Lansing, featuring State Sen. Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake), owner of Orbitform, a Jackson-based manufacturer. Attendees will get the inside scoop on state government and policies to help their businesses.

* Tuesday, October 27: Managing a Multi-Generational Workforce, featuring industry experts discussing the challenges and opportunities with the multi-generational workforce that manufacturers have employed in their plants.

The events are available at no cost. To register or to learn more about the events, visit www.mgalliance.org/mfgmonth. Keynote speakers will be announced in October.

The Manufacturing Growth Alliance champions, serves, and advocates for Michigan’s small manufacturers. For more information or to become a member, visit MGAlliance.org.