California Manufacturing Day.
The resolution recognizes that California's manufacturing sector accounts for 12 percent of the national manufacturing GDP and employs approximately 1.3 million workers. It asserts that these jobs are essential for maintaining a robust economy, as the average manufacturing job pays over $87,000 annually. The declaration is positioned as a means to emphasize the significance of manufacturing in not only providing employment but also generating substantial economic activity, valued at over $288 billion annually. The resolution notes the necessity of a skilled workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market.
ACR242, introduced by Gipson, is an Assembly Concurrent Resolution that declares October 5, 2018, as California Manufacturing Day. This resolution celebrates the pivotal role of California's manufacturing sector in the state and national economies. The resolution highlights the contributions of manufacturers, who are at the forefront of technological advancements and clean technologies that aim to reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency in both products and processes. It is also meant to raise awareness about the importance of the manufacturing industry and its workforce.
The sentiment surrounding ACR242 is positive, as it reaffirms the value of manufacturing in California and recognizes the contributions of various industries within the sector. Stakeholders involved, including educators and manufacturers, view the declaration as an opportunity to strengthen the ties between workforce development and industry needs. The resolution aims to inspire new generations to consider careers in manufacturing, addressing a growing skills gap that the industry currently faces.
While ACR242 is largely celebratory in nature, it implicitly acknowledges challenges faced by the manufacturing sector, such as the aging workforce and the difficulty of finding qualified candidates to fill specialized positions. However, there appears to be consensus on the importance of creating awareness and enhancing training opportunities to attract talent into the field. This resolution, while non-controversial, prompts discussion about broader policy implications that may affect workforce training and education in manufacturing.