Resources for Recruitment & Training
The U.S. faces a shortage of 3.8 million manufacturing workers by 2033, according to a study from the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte. Celebrated annually on the first Friday in October, MFG Day—Manufacturing Day—is a national grassroots movement that demonstrates the reality and future of modern manufacturing careers.
As a member of NAM and a committed supporter of workforce development efforts, the NGA supports the MFG Day initiative, to change the perceptions of the manufacturing industry and recruit the next generation of workers.
For MFG Day, throughout the month and beyond, thousands of companies and educational institutions nationwide are invited to open their doors to students, parents, educators and community leaders.
"We have to inspire more Americans to see themselves in manufacturing," says Carolyn Lee, president and executive director, Manufacturing Institute, in the State of the Manufacturing Workforce Address in February 2025. "That starts early, with programs that spark curiosity and excitement for careers in our industry."
Find resources to raise awareness and train your workforce.
NGA Resources
Blog: Speak to the Next Generation of Manufacturers
Tips for manufacturers to most effectively communicate with young people about manufacturing careers.
Blog: 6 Reasons to Love Architectural Glass
The glass industry can easily attract the next generation by demonstrating how our products improve the world.
Going All In on In-House Manufacturing
The fenestration industry is taking control and reshaping automation by adopting in-source manufacturing.
Top Manufacturers Report
New construction, remodeling, repair market, plus the state of manufacturing.
Technical Papers and Manuals
Share these resources and topics with people considering a career in glass manufacturing.
- Daylighting
- Benefits of Decorative Glass in Daylighting Applications
- Products for Energy Applications
- Recyclability of Architectural Glass Products
- Security Glazing
- School Security Glazing
- Bird-Friendly Glass Design Strategies
- Coastal Glazing and the Turtle Codes
- Describing Architectural Glass Constructions
- Construction Site Protection and Maintenance of Architectural Glass
- Recommended Applications for Heat-Treated Glass
- GANA Glazing Manual
- Protective Glazing Manual
- Commercial Fenestration Systems Manual
- Glass & Glazing Estimating Essentials Manual
- Glossary of Architectural Glass & Glazing
Next Steps: Onboarding & Training
After recruiting new workers into the industry, check out our New Hires Toolkit for help onboarding and training. Find the necessary forms and checklists, insights into successful onboarding, and intro training courses.