PIQUA — Frank Kohstall, deputy director of public affairs for the Ohio treasurer’s office visited the Upper Valley Career Center in Piqua, Friday, Oct. 6, as part of National Manufacturing Day, an annual initiative meant to highlight Ohioans working in careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades and raise awareness for these important industries.

As part of the Manufacturing Day celebration, Kohstall presented the Upper Valley Career Center with a proclamation for its efforts in hosting a manufacturing event to raise awareness on this important issue. National Manufacturing Day, annually the first Friday of October, allows manufacturing businesses throughout the country the opportunity to host events that highlight the important role their industries play in the economy and inspire the next generation of manufacturers to pursue these fields.

“As the baby boomers are retiring, I frequently hear about the shortage of welders, pipe-fitters, electricians, carpenters, machinists and other skilled trades across Ohio. There are high paying jobs going unfilled because employers can’t find a modern workforce to hire with the skill sets they need,” said Treasurer Josh Mandel in a release. “I believe that there is a quiet crisis upon us, and in order to prosper as a country we need to encourage young Americans to pursue careers in the skilled trades.”