Manufacturing has long been the backbone of global economies, yet the industry often remains hidden in plain sight, tucked away in industrial parks and misunderstood by the public. In this episode David was joined by Mike Nager.
Mike Nager is a passionate advocate for Smart Manufacturing, with a career that began in electrical engineering, where he worked closely with manufacturers to automate and optimize their production processes. Over time, he visited hundreds of plants—ranging from automotive and pharmaceuticals to paper mills and tire factories—each with its own unique challenges and stories. From the carbon-black-coated environments of tire production to the ultra-clean rooms of semiconductor manufacturing, Mike witnessed firsthand the diversity of manufacturing and the dedication of the people behind the scenes.
“It’s a world most people never get to see and part of my mission is to provide a window into that world.”
He currently serves as a Business Development Executive at Festo Didactic, the technical education arm of the Festo Group, which provides equipment and solutions to prepare the workforce of tomorrow—a mission that’s more important now than ever.
As if that weren’t enough, Mike is also an author, having published several engaging books, including All About Smart Manufacturing, a children’s book with delightful illustrations, and his Smart Student's Guide, aimed at helping students navigate the path to manufacturing careers.
Addressing the Awareness Gap
One of Mike’s key messages is the need to bridge the “awareness gap” in manufacturing. For years, the perception of manufacturing as dirty, dangerous, and undesirable work has discouraged young people from pursuing these careers. However, as Mike explained, the tide is turning. Modern manufacturing offers high-paying, stable careers in fields like robotics, automation, and data analysis.
We talked about how technical education can be a pathway to well-paying jobs, even for those without four-year degrees. “In some regions, students who complete just a year or two of technical training can go from earning minimum wage to $40 or $50 an hour with overtime,” he said. “It’s a massive opportunity for those who are willing to learn.”
The Role of Education in Revitalizing Manufacturing
As part of his work, Mike collaborates with educators to create hands-on training programs that prepare students for real-world manufacturing environments. Inspired by the German apprenticeship model, these programs emphasize learning by doing, providing students with the skills they need to succeed on the factory floor.
Yet, as Mike pointed out, the U.S. education system faces unique challenges. Unlike Germany, where apprenticeships are embedded in the culture, the U.S. relies heavily on public education to develop technical skills. This gap in structured training has made it even more critical to create accessible and engaging educational resources.
A Mission to Inspire—From High School to Children’s Books
Mike has taken a creative approach to inspiring interest in manufacturing. In addition to his professional work, he’s authored a children’s book, All About Smart Manufacturing, and a high school-focused Smart Students Guide. These books introduce young readers to the possibilities of manufacturing careers, using relatable language and illustrations to make the subject approachable.
“The first book was aimed at high school students, but I realized they’d already chosen their paths,” Mike explained. “That’s when I decided to write for younger kids, to plant the seed of curiosity early on.”
The Future of Manufacturing Careers
We also touched on broader trends shaping the industry, such as the push for local manufacturing due to national security concerns and the growing need for technical talent in an increasingly automated world. Mike emphasized that while automation is transforming processes, people remain at the heart of manufacturing.
“The idea of a ‘lights-out factory’—completely automated with no people—has been talked about for decades. But in reality, people are still essential, and their roles are evolving to require more technical and analytical skills.”
Closing Thoughts
Mike’s passion for manufacturing and education is clear: from his hands-on work with educators to his mission of raising awareness through books and outreach. His vision for the future of manufacturing is one where education, automation, and human creativity come together to revitalize the industry.
Or as Mike put it:
“Manufacturing is one of the few industries that truly creates wealth. It’s not just about making things—it’s about building communities and creating opportunities.”
Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or simply curious about the future of manufacturing, Mike’s insights are a valuable reminder of the importance of inspiring the next generation. As the industry evolves, it’s clear that the need for skilled, passionate people will only grow.
Find Mike on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikenager/
Interested in one of his books?
Printed and e-book versions available here:
https://www.industrialinsightsllc.com/#books
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