Close
Skip to content

For Students

There are many exciting career options in manufacturing waiting for you! 

    The Dream It Do It Advanced Manufacturing Program (DIDIAMP) gives middle and high school students real-world, hands-on ways to explore what you love, try new skills, and connect with people who can help you get ahead. Discover your strengths, earn digital badges, build your resume, and stand out for scholarships, internships, and future jobs – all while having fun and learning what’s possible for you.

    Ready to take the next step? Start discovering what you’re capable of and where it can take you.

    It is Easy to Enroll!

    Step 1:

    ENROLL ON
    TALLO PLATFORM

    Step 2:

    PARTICIPATE IN APPLIED
    LEARNING EVENTS

    Step 3:

    EXPLORE CAREERS

    Step 4:

    EARN INDUSTRY
    RECOGNIZED BADGES

    To learn more about career opportunities in manufacturing you can call your local Dream It Do It Director or speak to your school counselor or teacher.

    Job & Salaries Overview

    Exactly how much money can you make in manufacturing? Western New York manufacturing has plenty of opportunities and employs workers at a wide range of salaries.

    Manufacturing:

    • pays average wages and benefits of about 12-20% more than the average compensation for the rest of the workforce.
    • employs nearly 13 million people in the United States.
    • is responsible for more than 70% of private sector research and development.
    • creates a wide range of advanced technologies that cut energy use and lead to a cleaner environment.
    • is a knowledge-based industry powered by computer technology.

    Note: List is first year starting salary in Western New York, according to the Department of Labor.

    Assembler - $34,770
    Civin Engineering Technician - $42,307
    Computer Hardware Engineer - $68,523
    Chemical Technician - $37,913
    CNC Machine Operator - $42,143
    Engineering Technician - $39,221
    Electrical Engineer - $74,608
    Electronics Engineer - $61,941
    Electrical and Electronics Repairer - $45,324
    Fabricator (Metal & Plastic) - $30,904
    Inspectors, Testers, Sorters - $36,322
    Industrial Engineer - $56,973
    Industrial Engineer Tech - $43,840
    Industrial Machinery Mechanic - $52,457
    Machinist - $44,250
    Production Workers - $34,849
    Welders, Cutters, Solderers - $42,586
    Tool & Die Maker - $54,015
    Maintenance Workers, Machinery - $46,552
    Mechanical Engineer - $72,995
    Plant and System Operator - $49,505

    “I learned how to use a bandsaw, a shear, a circular saw, mills, drills and welding equipment……we did everything!”

    Gavin DIDIAMP Student
    Gavin
    DIDIAMP participant and attendee at Manufacturing Mayhem Camp

    “Creating things makes me happy….. I liked the camp because everyone was helpful and they encouraged me to create!”

    Maddie - DIDIAMP Student
    Maddie
    DIDIAMP Participant and attendee at Manufacturing Mayhem Camp

    Manufacturing Work Based Experiences

    Interested in learning more about manufacturing through job shadowing, mentorship, internship, apprenticeship or a job? Dream It. Do It. can help you connect with these types of opportunities!