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Manufacturing Day shines a spotlight on the critical role of manufacturing in the U.S. economy, and the industries that make it possible. For the print and promotional products industry, it’s a special opportunity to showcase what the industry is all about, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of what it takes to put ink on “stuff.”

Stephanie A. Buka, the government affairs manager for PRINTING United Alliance, shares why this day matters and how promotional products companies can celebrate their workforce and attract new talent.

Promo Impressions: What is Manufacturing Day, and why is it an important occasion for the promotional products industry to recognize and celebrate it?

SB: Manufacturing Day, led by the Manufacturing Institute (MI), the educational arm of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), takes place annually on the first Friday in October — this year on Oct. 3, 2025. It highlights the vital role manufacturing plays in the U.S. economy and inspires the next generation of talent. It’s both a celebration and a call to action to strengthen American manufacturing.

Promo Impressions: How can promotional products companies celebrate and encourage the next generation of the industry?

SB: Promotional products companies can host open houses to showcase modern production processes. Partnering with high schools, trade schools, and colleges to offer internships or apprenticeships provides hands-on experience and demonstrates diverse career paths in print and promo.

Promo Impressions: What strategies have you seen work best for engaging students or early-career professionals in the printing and promotional products industries?

SB: Younger generations are drawn to companies with strong sustainability practices. Highlighting eco-friendly efforts, such as waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable materials, resonates with students. Showcasing advanced, technology-driven printing practices can play a pivotal role in attracting new talent.

Promo Impressions: Why is it vital for our industry to invest in workforce development and mentorship for the future of manufacturing?

SB: The printing industry faces the same labor shortages impacting many sectors, making it essential to invest in workforce development and mentorship to rebuild talent pipelines and pass on critical skills and knowledge to the next generation. As a member of Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition, the Alliance supports a workforce development policy that aims to strengthen the U.S. economy. A recent coalition win was the passage of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, which expands 529 savings plans to cover professional certifications and career and technical education.

In addition to this new savings option for students and families, companies that establish a structured mentorship program will gain a competitive edge by building and retaining a resilient workforce. For guidance on workforce development and mentorship, please visit the Alliance’s Center for Human Resources Support or reach out to Adriane Harrison, vice president of human relations consulting at aharrison@printing.org.

Promo Impressions: How does celebrating Manufacturing Day help raise awareness about the value of promotional product manufacturing and the print industry?

SB: The U.S. printing industry ranks third among all manufacturing industries in number of establishments, tenth in number of employees, and fifteenth in total sales. The promotional products industry generated $26.6 billion in 2024. Celebrating Manufacturing Day gives us an opportunity to showcase the print and promo industry’s vital contributions to economic growth.

Promo Impressions: How does the Alliance support Manufacturing Day and encourage the next generation of industry professionals?

SB: Students can explore print and promo careers by attending Student Day at the PRINTING United Expo on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. This free event, officially registered as an #MFGDay25 event, offers students a firsthand look at the exciting, innovative, and modern career opportunities in the print and promo industry. With emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping the industry, now is an exciting time to enter print and promo. Students can stay informed by subscribing to the new PRINTING AI newsletter.