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Targeting Parents Studies show that the #1 influencer on high school students’ career choice is…their parents! Therefore, the accurate information connection must not only be made to students, but to their parents as well. Parental buy-in is essential. Often parents just need a chance to learn about the clean, fast-paced and high tech work environments of modern manufacturing. For industry, speaking at a school open house, parent night or a robotic or STEM event provides that chance to educate students and parents about modern manufacturing and the career opportunities currently available. Manufacturers can also encourage teachers to invite parents to join their children on manufacturing tours. This is a very effective way to expose parents to the industry and can really help change any negative perception they have. Targeting the School’s Community Most people have a limited understanding of what manufacturing encompasses. They are largely unaware of the many varied, high tech, high-wage careers available in the field. Educating the public via schools and other support groups, in general terms, is a great way to begin to change the perception of manufacturing. It’s important to send the mes- sage to the entire school population, including the school’s support infrastructure, that every day they enjoy things they don’t realize were made in Florida. The more the public becomes aware that behind every product and technology lies the somewhat hidden world of manufacturing, the more likely their image of manufactur- ing will change. Finally, don't forget your local school board. School boards are bombarded with requests to respond to perceived important needs. However, manufacturers usually don't focus the message about their workforce education needs to their school boards. Proactive messages to your school board will make a difference. 16