Advanced Manufacturing

This isn’t the production line technology of your grandparents or your parents – these are cutting-edge careers using 3-D models, computer simulations, software development and more.

Possible career paths include:

• Assemblers & Fabricators 
• Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator 
• Grinding & Polishing Workers 
• Inspectors
• Machine Operator 
• Production Workers
• Tool & Die Makers 
• Welders, Cutters, Solderers & Brazers 

Learn about Ferris State University's Welding Program.

Key occupations in Michigan’s Manufacturing sector are projected to grow in employment by 6.1 percent (29,400) between 2020 and 2030. These occupations are expected to produce nearly 51,200 average annual openings.

Most key occupations in the Manufacturing sector require a high school diploma or equivalent or less and on-the-job training, offering many opportunities for those not looking to further their education.

The nominal average salary in the Manufacturing sector is $71,700. This is $10,000 greater than the average salary for total statewide employment.

There were nearly 3,400 active registered apprentices in the Manufacturing sector across Michigan and nearly 40 percent of these apprentices were in the Detroit Metro region.

Offsetting losses observed during the Great Recession, Manufacturing sector employment grew by 14.9 percent since 2011. This was approximately double the growth rate seen among total statewide employment.