McKenzie Chamber, Industrial Development Board Announces Manufacturing Month Events

McKENZIE (October 1) — The McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Development Board celebrate Manufacturing Month this October with a series of events designed to highlight the importance of manufacturing, showcase career opportunities for students and recognize the men and women who keep McKenzie’s industries strong.

Manufacturing has long been the backbone of rural communities. It provides well-paying jobs for families, drives investment into the economy and supports small businesses across the region. Just as important, it gives students and young adults a chance to see a future for themselves right at home.

“Manufacturing Month is my favorite month of the year,” said Monica Heath, executive director of the McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Development Board. “It’s about celebrating our industries, thanking the people who make them strong, and showing students and families that good-paying, high-tech careers are available right here in McKenzie.”

Manufacturing Month is about more than tours and events; it is about changing perceptions, building partnerships, and ensuring the next generation understands that today’s manufacturing is advanced, innovative and full of opportunity.

Participation in all Manufacturing Month events requires registration with the McKenzie Industrial Development Board, as space is limited. Contact Monica Heath at (731) 352-2004 or mckenzieindustry@gmail.com to register.

Schedule of Events

October 10 – Manufacturing Breakfast: Industry leaders, educators, and community stakeholders will gather to share ideas, strengthen partnerships, and kick off Manufacturing Month.

Week of October 6 – Community Manufacturing Tours: Tours of Pottery Direct and Plastic Products Formers will give the public a behind-the-scenes look at local manufacturing. Registration is required, as space is limited.

Week of October 6 – Employee Appreciation Lunches: Lunch will be delivered at each manufacturing facility, with dates and times approved by each company. Chamber and IDB board members will personally deliver meals as a show of gratitude to local employees.

October 22 – TCAT Henry/Carroll Tour: A community tour will showcase the technical training programs that prepare students for high-demand careers in the manufacturing industry.

Week of October 27 – UTM Latimer-Smith Engineering and Science Building Tour: A community tour of the new engineering facility at the University of Tennessee at Martin will be offered, if there is interest.

Week of October 20 – TCAT Dual Enrollment Student Tours: Dual enrollment students will participate in manufacturing tours, accompanied by one-on-one Q&A sessions with professionals in their specific fields of study.