Summary: Discover 10 innovative manufacturing companies offering exciting internships, co-ops, and early career programs. From automotive giants to snack food favorites, these opportunities provide hands-on experience and potential career paths in an industry that’s actively seeking fresh talent.
Think manufacturing is all about assembly lines and hard hats? Think again! The manufacturing world is bursting with opportunities that’ll make you say, “Wait, that’s manufacturing?”. And here’s the kicker: they’re practically begging for young talent like you to join their ranks, with 88% of surveyed manufacturers saying that attracting Gen Z is a high priority.
According to a Deloitte study, manufacturers might see 2.1 million jobs go unfilled by 2030. That’s like having a “Help Wanted” sign the size of Houston. So, if you’re looking for a career path that’s both in-demand and wildly diverse, manufacturing might just be your golden ticket.
EXPLORE MANUFACTURING CAREERS ON TALLO
Ready to explore some seriously innovative companies that could jumpstart your career? Here are 10 manufacturing powerhouses you should definitely have on your radar:
- VT Industries: Did you love taking woodshop? A manufacturer of architectural wood doors and paneling, laminate countertops, butcher block countertops, and laminate panels, VT Industries offers internships and co-ops in everything from Engineering and IT to Marketing and HR. Plus, their 2-year Manufacturing Management Program is like a career catapult for recent grads. Take a peek at their careers site for further details and to see the upcoming career fairs they’ll be attending this year.
- Grenzebach: If you’re into glass, logistics, or building materials (or all three!), Grenzebach’s got you covered. Grenzebach hosts multiple programs including internships, apprenticeships, working student opportunities, thesis work, holiday jobs, and dual study programs. With opportunities spanning from Germany to China, you can literally take your career global. Hear directly from employees on their experiences and their career within the organization by following their LinkedIn hashtag, #beingGrenzebach.
- JCB: Ever dreamed of designing those massive yellow construction machines? With 10% of their workforce being veterans and a range of apprenticeship, sponsorship, and graduate training programs, working with JCB could put you in the driver’s seat of engineering innovation.
- Toyo Tires: These folks have been rolling for over 75 years (pun totally intended). Their “Discover Your Potential” tool matches you to roles faster than you can say “rubber meets the road.” Try it out for yourself and see if Toyo Tires is the place for you.
- Kia Georgia: Kia Georgia is revving up opportunities faster than a sports car on a straightaway. They’ve teamed up with local colleges to offer a maintenance certification program that’s hotter than Georgia asphalt in July. Plus, their THINC College and Career Academy gives high schoolers a chance to test drive careers and even earn college credit. Talk about a head start! Whether you’re into co-ops, internships, or just want to peek under the hood of a major car manufacturer, Kia Georgia’s got you covered. And hey, Georgia natives, why not schedule a plant tour?
- OSI: If you’re a foodie with a technical bent, OSI’s internships let you play with your food (professionally). OSI’s internships provide an opportunity to learn about the various areas of food manufacturing with options in nearly every department you can and can’t think of. With a program focused on project-based work such as process improvement, improving yield, and waste reduction, an internship with OSI can give you valuable experience. And did we mention they’re hiring for 2025 interns right now?
- Leprino Foods: Cheese lovers, unite! Leprino’s got programs for current students, college grads, and military veterans that are more tempting than a pizza fresh out of the oven. Their Military Leadership Trainee Program is designed for recently transitioned military veterans and their College Graduate Leadership Trainee Program offers tracks in Maintenance, Production, or Finance. Leprino is worth considering, especially for those close to graduation.
- AAM: Passionate about the future of transportation? AAM’s year-round Co-Ops, summer internships, and two different rotational programs put you at the forefront of electric and hybrid vehicle tech. They also offer a Global Mentor Program for employees along with many Associate Resource Groups to enhance career development and contribute to personal growth. Their year-round co-op opportunities are open right now! Go check them out.
- Mondelēz International: Imagine telling your friends you helped develop the latest Oreo flavor. Mondelēz’s internships and development programs are as sweet as their products. Offering summer internships in multiple business areas (such as Sales, Marketing, IT, Manufacturing, and R&D) as well as a Leadership Development Program that covers HR, Sales, and Finance, their programs cater to undergrad, Master’s and MBA students and they’re open right now. They even offer fully furnished subsidized housing for those interns that qualify. Get a taste of your future with Mondelēz International.
- John Deere: More than just tractors, John Deere’s early career programs are a buffet of opportunities. From part-time gigs to rotational programs, they’ve got options for days for current students and recent grads.
Is a Manufacturing Career Right for You?
Look, we get it. Manufacturing might not have been on your career vision board. But with opportunities this diverse and companies this innovative, it’s definitely worth a second look. Whether you’re into food, cars, construction, or tech, there’s a manufacturing career path with your name on it.
So why not give it a shot? Apply for a few internships, take a plant tour, or chat with someone in the industry. You might just discover that manufacturing is the perfect fit for your skills and passions. After all, who wouldn’t want to be part of building the future – literally?
