Boeing works to prepare South Carolina students for careers in advanced manufacturing and technology By Rob Gross, Boeing South Carolina Communications
Boeing has maintained a significant presence in South Carolina since first landing in the Palmetto State in 2010. Understandably, most South Carolinians picture the 787 Dreamliner when they think about Boeing’s North Charleston facilities. The 787 remains the cornerstone of Boeing’s South Carolina operations, but in recent years the business has expanded to include projects and programs across The Boeing Company. Boeing has taken a lead role in advancing the conversation around careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and advanced manufacturing, and helping ensure that today’s South Carolina students are prepared to embark on those careers tomorrow. Boeing, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, achieved a milestone two years in the making in October 2017 when it visited the last of South Carolina’s 46 counties. The
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outreach, known as Boeing Days, gives students, educators, elected officials, and business and community leaders from across the state the opportunity to connect with Boeing representatives. Boeing representatives engaged with nearly 21,000 students and more than 3,600 leaders of these many communities as part of Boeing Days. More than 85 elementary, middle and high schools in South Carolina were visited as part of this effort. Company representatives shared with students the exciting realities of careers in high-technology, advanced manufacturing fields, and participated in extensive dialogue with those leaders on what needs to be done to make sure students are ready to step into those jobs. South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector is one of the fastest growing in the U.S., and our state will need a full pipeline of qualified job candidates with the skills to fill those needs.
Engine nacelle inlets, designed and manufactured at Propulsion South Carolina, are installed on the new 737 MAX and delivered to airplane customers all over the world. (Boeing photo)
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