“We all have a part to play in building the future workforce.”

In this special PMA District Leadership episode of the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast, host Dean Phillips sits down with Manny Resendes, Engineering and Tool Room Manager at Larson Tool & Stamping Company, and Chair of the PMA New England District.

Manny shares his inspiring journey into manufacturing, sparked at age 14 during a trade school visit where he first discovered machining. He discusses the urgent need to backfill the retiring workforce by engaging the next generation—especially through trade schools, co-ops and programs like SkillsUSA, a major focus for the district's outreach and activities.

As the director for SkillsUSA’s CNC competition, Manny is helping modernize standards so that students graduate ready to contribute on day one. In their district activities, he emphasizes the power of plant tours, networking and knowledge-sharing to inspire innovation and spark new ideas.

Manny also highlights the evolution of technology, from advanced CNC machining to servo presses paired with cobots—tools that increase safety, flexibility and throughput. Despite challenges such as workforce shortages and shop closures, Manny sees opportunity and urges everyone—especially parents—to promote hands-on learning and rethink manufacturing careers as technical, clean and global. His message: “We all have a part to play in building the future workforce.”