Manufacturing Day shines a spotlight on the critical role of manufacturing in the U.S. economy, and the industries that make it possible. For the print and promotional products industry, it’s a special opportunity to showcase what the industry is all about, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of what it takes to put ink on “stuff.”
Stephanie A. Buka, the government affairs manager for PRINTING United Alliance, shares why this day matters and how promotional products companies can celebrate their workforce and attract new talent.
Promo Impressions: What is Manufacturing Day, and why is it an important occasion for the promotional products industry to recognize and celebrate it?
SB: Manufacturing Day, led by the Manufacturing Institute (MI), the educational arm of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), takes place annually on the first Friday in October — this year on Oct. 3, 2025. It highlights the vital role manufacturing plays in the U.S. economy and inspires the next generation of talent. It’s both a celebration and a call to action to strengthen American manufacturing.
Promo Impressions: How can promotional products companies celebrate and encourage the next generation of the industry?
SB: Promotional products companies can host open houses to showcase modern production processes. Partnering with high schools, trade schools, and colleges to offer internships or apprenticeships provides hands-on experience and demonstrates diverse career paths in print and promo.
Read the full interview on Apparelist, published on behalf of Promo Impressions, a PRINTING United Alliance brand and ASI’s strategic content partner.
