Five Fork Union Military Academy cadets gained firsthand insight into high-demand technical career fields during Piedmont Virginia Community College’s second annual Manufacturing Day this past Friday. The event, hosted at PVCC’s state-of-the-art Technology Engineering Department facility, introduced students to emerging opportunities in advanced manufacturing and engineering.

PVCC opened its new manufacturing education facility last year, a $10 million, solar-powered building designed to provide hands-on experience for students pursuing careers in Manufacturing Engineering. As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve, PVCC emphasized the growing need for skilled workers who can support and complement advancements in automation and artificial intelligence.

During the event, cadets heard from a panel of five Charlottesville-based manufacturing companies: Afton Scientific, Stryten Energy, Micro Aire Surgical Instruments, Sun Tribe Solar, and Lighthouse: Science of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing. Representatives discussed their products, workforce needs, and the increasing number of opportunities available for trained individuals. Many companies are expanding rapidly and rely on community partnerships to fill critical positions.

Students learned that while AI continues to reshape the industry, human expertise remains essential particularly in maintaining the systems AI cannot replace. PVCC’s program provides direct pathways to internships and entry-level jobs starting between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, with additional grants available to support training and workforce development.

Cadets also toured the facility’s cybersecurity lab, CAD classrooms, CNC machining areas, and robotics room, gaining a comprehensive look at the technology driving modern manufacturing.

Fork Union Military Academy was one of several participating schools, joining students from Fluvanna County High School, Albemarle County high schools, Louisa County High School, and Charlottesville City Schools.

The experience offered students a valuable look into promising career pathways and the expanding opportunities within Virginia’s manufacturing sector.