June 4, 2026- Students at High School North had the opportunity to explore the exciting world of advanced manufacturing today as the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) brought its Future Makers & Creators Tour to campus.

The statewide initiative, developed in partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), is designed to connect students with modern manufacturing technologies, local employers, and career pathways that exist beyond the traditional four-year college route. Throughout the day, students engaged with industry professionals and experienced firsthand how innovation, technology, and skilled trades are shaping the future of manufacturing in New Jersey.

The Future Makers & Creators Tour introduces students to advanced manufacturing through hands-on demonstrations featuring technologies such as 3D printing, robotic arms, CNC machining equipment, and augmented reality welding simulators. The program aims to bridge the gap between education and industry by providing students with direct exposure to career opportunities available in their own communities.

"Today's event provided our students with a great opportunity to see how classroom skills connect to real-world careers," said event organizer and HSN engineering teacher Derek Bonk. "Many students are familiar with technology but have never considered the role they could play in designing, building, or operating advanced manufacturing systems. This experience opened their eyes to new possibilities for future careers and interests." 

According to NJMEP, manufacturing is expected to face millions of job openings nationwide over the coming decade, making workforce development and career awareness critical priorities.

“There are more than 40,000 jobs in over 10,000 companies and the Makers and Creators Tour is all about sharing those opportunities with students,” said NJMEP Director of Workforce Development & Training Larry Banks.

The Future Makers & Creators Tour was created to help students understand the wide range of high-demand, high-skill careers available within the manufacturing sector.

Students had the opportunity to interact directly with manufacturing professionals, learn about educational pathways and apprenticeship opportunities, and gain insight into careers that combine technology, engineering, problem-solving, and innovation.

"I liked working on the CNC machine and I liked how interactive everything was, said Mariner senior Kyaire Smith. “I was surprised by how much technology is involved in manufacturing. Before today, I thought manufacturing was factories like you see in the movies…just conveyor belts and stuff…but today seeing the CNC machines and robots I get that it’s a lot more high tech than I thought."

The visit reflects High School North's ongoing commitment to career readiness and workforce development by connecting students with professionals and industries that are helping shape New Jersey's economy.

"Toms River High School North is committed to helping students explore a variety of post-secondary pathways and career opportunities," said Assistant Principal Chris Blessing. "We are grateful to NJMEP and its partners for bringing this engaging and educational experience to our students. Events like this help students make decisions about their future.”

This feature narrative is courtesy of HSN media specialist Kodi Sohl. All photos including those below are courtesy of HSN technology teacher Dana Oleksy.