CMMA Announces Central Minnesota Tour of Manufacturing Week: Oct. 1-4, 2025

St. Cloud MINN. (Sept. 9, 2025) — The Central Minnesota Manufacturers Association (CMMA) announces its 14th annual Tour of Manufacturing, set to take place Oct. 1 – 4, 2025, which includes manufacturing facility tours at 24 companies across the region for students, parents and the public to help inspire and recruit the next generation of manufacturing talent.

 

The in-person tours provide a first-hand look at how Central Minnesota is a leader in the high-tech world of modern manufacturing. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about products and processes, career paths, workplace cultures, as well as how companies use the latest technologies to move manufacturing forward. Participating companies include Malco, Ridgewater College, Engel Metallurgical, West Central Steel, St. Cloud State University and many more. A full list of participating companies, plus a schedule, feature articles and more is available in the CMMA Manufacturing e-magazine.

 

Manufacturing is the second largest industry in Minnesota, and its job creation sustains local families and communities. Accounting for more than 15% of all employment in the region, manufacturing is a vibrant and growing industry that offers competitive wages and benefits, advancement pathways and rewarding careers. In 2023, there were approximately 12,000 job vacancies in manufacturing, and this is expected to grow to over 93,000 openings by 2032 when factoring in new jobs and retirements.

 

“CMMA is proud to spotlight the heart of our community: the manufacturers, innovators and collaborators who drive the local industry forward,” said Lynda Bailey, CMMA executive director. “The Tour of Manufacturing is a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of our state’s manufacturing sector, and the innovative companies, skilled workforce and economic impact manufacturing brings to our region.”

 

Teachers and schools are encouraged to schedule tours for students to learn about the industry, potential career paths and more. A teacher’s guide, information on continuing education unit credits, grant funding and funding for bus transportation is available on CMMAworks.org.

 

During the 2025 tour, CMMA is also recognizing the 2024 Manufacturer of the Year: Two Rivers Enterprises of Holdingford, Minn. The stainless-steelfabricator manufactures equipment for food processors, restaurants, pharmacies and medical facilities and is known for building careers and community. Selected for its dedication to growing the manufacturing workforce in Central Minnesota, Two Rivers Enterprises partners with local youth and education organizations to offer real-world career pathways for students.

 

“Receiving the Manufacturer of the Year award is an incredible honor for our entire team at Two Rivers Enterprises,” said Brian Warzecha, Two Rivers Enterprises president. “To be acknowledged in this way is both humbling and deeply rewarding as it affirms our focus on craftsmanship, customer service and continuous improvement is making a meaningful impact.”

 

CMMA is appreciative of its sponsors who help make the tour and magazine development possible. Sponsors include Malco, Relco, DCI, BizRecycling, Central McGowan, MNCEO, Rosenbauer and more.

 

For more information and for contact information to schedule a tour, visit CMMAworks.org.  

Since its founding in 2003, the Central Minnesota Manufacturers Association (CMMA) has served as a driving force for manufacturers across the region. Created by a small group of industry leaders seeking collaboration and support, CMMA has grown into a vital network of more than 270 members, including manufacturers, suppliers, educators and community partners. At its core, CMMA is dedicated to strengthening the manufacturing sector through education, workforce development and advocacy. The organization brings people together across industries, counties and backgrounds, to solve problems, share knowledge and create opportunities that benefit the region’s economy and future workforce. To learn more visit CMMAworks.org.