“Maker” Books Distributed to A.K. Smiley Library Kids’ Summer Reading Program Participants

(Left to Right) Pamela Martinez, Molly Burgess, and Deanna Krehbiel standing with the books MCIE donated to Smiley Library as prizes for the library’s summer reading program. Photo credit: John P. Beall

Redlands, CA – The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE), located in Redlands, donated ten “Smithsonian Maker Lab” books to the A.K. Smiley Public Library Children’s Department to be offered as one of many summer reading game prizes. Executive Director of MCIE, Molly Burgess, and Deanna Krehbiel, Executive Director of Economic Development and Corporate Training (EDCT) for the San Bernardino Community College District, presented the books Pamela Martinez, Senior Librarian, Youth Services in a short ceremony.

“The distribution of these books holds significant importance as they introduce children to the fascinating world of manufacturing,” said Burgess. “Our hope is that kids, who enjoy making things, will consider future careers in manufacturing.” The “Maker Lab” books provide instructions on creative projects emphasizing the value of hands-on skills.

The Manufacturers’ Council works closely with regional community colleges in supporting technical career pathways for future manufacturers. “By engaging young minds, this cooperative initiative aims to spark interest in this vital, yet often overlooked, sector that offers high-wage careers,” said Krehbiel. “These books introduce career exploration and insight into careers that develop and create things. Manufacturing is a very rewarding career in which individuals can see the results of what they create.”

In accepting the books, Pamela Martinez said, “Participants in the Summer Reading Program will be ecstatic to have such a great book offered as one of the potential prizes they could win. Each book is signed by a significant person dedicated to the field of manufacturing.”

The industry is currently facing a projected shortage of 2.1 million workers over the next decade, exacerbated by post-COVID workforce challenges. Many people are unaware of what a typical day in modern manufacturing looks like, making it difficult for parents, teachers, and advisors to guide young people towards these careers.

Manufacturing in the Inland Empire is diverse, with over 4,000 manufacturing plants offering comprehensive benefits, retirement plans, and tuition reimbursement programs. The MCIE’s efforts aim to bridge the gap by showcasing the rewarding opportunities in the field.

The Manufacturers’ Council of the I.E. is a 501 (c)3 non-profit serving inland southern California. For more information about the MCIE, or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact us at [email protected].