Valley Vision Uplifts Manufacturing in the Region
On September 24th, Valley Vision, in partnership with the Greater Sacramento Economic Council, Los Rios Community College District, and the Sacramento Valley Manufacturers Association, hosted an Advanced Manufacturing Sector Advisory focused on Precision Manufacturing. Precision manufacturing emerged as a key priority industry sector in our region’s California Job’s First research assessment. This advisory event brought together industry leaders, educators, and regional stakeholders to discuss workforce challenges and strategies for economic growth in the sector. Discussions highlighted manufacturing’s critical role in the regional economy and the urgent need to adapt to advancing technologies.
One key issue identified was the shortage of candidates with the specialized skills needed in roles such as electrical and mechanical technicians, CNC operators, and automation specialists. Panelists emphasized the importance of dual enrollment programs and apprenticeships that offer students hands-on experience, aligning education with industry needs to build a sustainable talent pipeline.
Participants explored how AI and automation are reshaping manufacturing, not by eliminating jobs but by transforming them. As diagnostics and machine operations increasingly rely on AI, workers must enhance their troubleshooting skills and continuously upskill. The group highlighted that automation offers growth opportunities, provided there is a commitment to ongoing education and technical training, which will ensure that the workforce stays adaptable and aligned with technological advancements.
Collaboration between manufacturers and educational institutions was underscored as essential for aligning training programs with industry needs. Panelists highlighted successful strategies, including dual enrollment, company-sponsored apprenticeships, and active engagement with schools. Adult education programs were also praised for enabling career changers to transition into manufacturing roles.
One specific program highlighted by several employers was the Mechatronics program at Sierra College, which has been a frontrunner in advanced manufacturing skills training with key employer partnerships including Siemens, Bosch, and others. Sierra College was also the location of a recent tour highlighting regional opportunities in precision manufacturing during the recent California Economic Summit. This event included a panel discussion with employer and education partners and a tour of the college’s programs and facilities. In response to questions about how Sierra College has been able to be so responsive to industry, CTE Dean Amy Schulz shared, “We do our best to respond to employers’ immediate workforce needs while also listening to our economic development partners’ signals of what is to come.”
The Precision Manufacturing Advisory reinforced the urgent need for a skilled workforce and the value of collaboration to meet this demand. By strengthening partnerships among industry, education, and community organizations, the region can build a robust talent pipeline that keeps pace with rapid advancements in AI and automation. Programs like Sierra College’s Mechatronics and initiatives like dual enrollment, apprenticeships, and targeted adult education programs, drive forward accessible, innovative training that will strengthen the region’s manufacturing sector. Sustained attention and investment in precision manufacturing can help expand accessible quality jobs for our region’s residents for years to come.
