Spotlight

This summer, sparks flew as students across the country explored the world of packaging, processing, and manufacturing through hands-on learning. With support from the PMMI Foundation and SparkForce™, the Foundation of the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, Intl., more than two dozen summer camps ignited curiosity, built confidence, and introduced students to meaningful careers.

The PMMI Foundation proudly awarded a $50,000 grant to support 25 manufacturing camps across the U.S., helping students ages 12–16 learn real-world skills and connect with industry mentors. From coding and welding to robotics and drones, these camps brought career exploration to life.

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“Connecting the packaging industry with our future workforce is essential. It’s how we share real-world knowledge, pass on valuable experience, and encourage fresh thinking. By investing in future talent, we help build a workforce that’s prepared, driven, and ready to take on the challenges ahead. It’s also important that young people see the diverse range of careers available in packaging and automation. I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors throughout my career, and I love any opportunity to give back.”

– Anna Jacobs, Applied Manufacturing Technologies

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A Nationwide Effort

Held from June through August, camps took place in communities from California to Pennsylvania, offering unique experiences in everything from robot design to hydraulic engineering. Just a few highlights:

• GADgET Girls (IL) introduced young women to careers in design and tech through hands-on STEM projects.
• Maker Camp (PA) gave campers hands-on experiences in digital fabrication, electronics and mechatronics.
• Robotics Camp (MN) included visits to local manufacturing facilities and seeing technologies that are used to manufacture products we use everyday.
• Girls & Boys in Engineering Academy (MI) empowered students from any background to pursue STEM fields.
• Manufacturing Career Academy (NC) provided students a deeper understanding of and hands-on experience in manufacturing career paths.

“For me the importance of industry support is give these students the opportunity to see real-world application and equipment in action.  Insights beyond the classroom materials where students are able to see, hands on running and changing machine functions with actual industry equipment. Gives students confidences that they will be able to work in the industry one day.”

Todd Kruse – Robotics Head Coach FRC 8516 and Robotics Engineering Teacher, Legacy Christian Academy

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Why It Matters

At a time when the manufacturing and packaging industries face a growing skills gap, early engagement is key. These camps help students connect their interests with in-demand careers, while building a diverse pipeline of future professionals.

Thanks to the PMMI U Skills Fund, member companies can also get involved by supporting regional education efforts—with matched donations up to $50,000 annually.

As we close the chapter on another successful summer, one thing is clear: when we invest in students, we invest in the future of our industry. The PMMI Foundation is proud to support programs that make a real difference – and we look forward to expanding this impact even further in 2026.

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To our partners, educators, mentors, and students – thank you for helping us build the future, one camp at a time  

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