Oct. 2, 2026 – ALEXANDRIA, La. — Central Louisiana students got a hands-on look at careers close to home Friday during Crest Industries’ annual Manufacturing Day at the England Airpark Community Center.

The event connected students and educators with manufacturing professionals, college representatives, and training programs. Students explored interactive exhibits, tried manufacturing simulations, and learned how their interests could translate into careers in welding, engineering, design, equipment operation, and other fields.

Alexandria Mayor Jacques M. Roy proclaimed October 2026 Manufacturing Month in the city, recognizing the industry’s contribution to local jobs, economic growth, and quality of life.

“Manufacturing Month provides an invaluable opportunity for local businesses, educational institutions, civic leaders, and residents to recognize the importance of manufacturing,” says Mayor Roy. “Crest Industries’ regional Manufacturing Day events showcase our commitment to supporting, sustaining and attracting future industrial and technical investment while inspiring the next generation of workers and innovators.”

Students met representatives from Central Louisiana Technical Community College, Northwestern State University, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Crest’s DIS-TRAN Steel and DIS-TRAN Packaged Substations training programs. Louisiana Central also participated as a community partner.

Hands-on activities included manufacturing simulations through CLTCC’s mobile learning center and conversations with professionals whose work helps power communities, keep industrial facilities running, and create everyday products.

Crest Industries’ annual event is part of the national Manufacturing Day celebration, helping students connect what they learn in school with opportunities in their own communities. Students and educators can learn more about manufacturing month and see other opportunities to get involved at www.crestoperations.com/manufacturing-month.

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About Crest Industries

Founded in 1958, Crest Industries is the operating company for a family of world-class project-oriented businesses specialized in electric power delivery, industrial services, distribution, specialty chemicals, and natural resources. Crest Industries is a company rooted in our people and built around progress – growing year after year, unafraid to embrace bold, new ideas to improve the way we support our teams, clients, and communities.

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