COLUMBUS, Ind. – Next Gen Manufacturing Connections has announced STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Discovery Night, a family-friendly event on Thursday, October 2, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Toyota T+REX Complex, 6125 Inwood Drive, in Columbus.
This free, interactive evening invites students, caregivers, and community members to explore the innovation and creativity in modern manufacturing.
At the event, there will be fun hands-on activities spotlighting STEM in action—experience everything from robotics, virtual and augmented reality, to artificial intelligence, and advanced fabrication methods. Meet experts from Cummins, Toyota Material Handling, Enkei, Faurecia, Lindal Group, and others. The free admission ensures accessibility for all curious minds.
The occasion showcases how local companies harness advanced manufacturing to shape products and careers. Attendees will walk away inspired, informed, and connected to a thriving sector that is both modern and essential.
STEM Discovery and Manufacturing Day explains a high-tech ecosystem where artificial intelligence, 3D printing, co-bots, and augmented/virtual reality fuel innovation and career growth. Training in this field leads to a variety of well-paying jobs, including those in finance, information technology, chemistry, industrial maintenance, marketing, and logistics.
The October 2 STEM discovery event kicks off National Manufacturing Week. On Friday, October 3, more than 400 regional high school students will participate in Manufacturing Day, designed to educate and inspire students through hands-on activities, panel discussions, and tours of the Walesboro manufacturing operations.
The Friday, October 3, invitation-only event is for high school students and is supported by NextGen Connections, a collaborative employer group that includes the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, the Community Education Coalition, C-4 Career Tech Ed, and the Greater Columbus Economic Development Corporation.
