Building Pathways to the Future: Ashley Hosts Students for Nationwide Educational Tours

ARCADIA, Wis. – Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC (Ashley) celebrated Manufacturing Month throughout October by opening its doors to nearly 900 students across Mississippi, North Carolina and Wisconsin. The nationwide initiative, anchored by National Manufacturing Day, offered students an up-close look at the technology, talent and creativity powering today’s manufacturing industry.

Across 12 schools, students visited Ashley facilities to see firsthand how furniture moves from concept to finished product. Tours highlighted the role of automation, robotics and skilled craftsmanship in modern manufacturing while introducing students to the variety of careers that support Ashley’s operations.

Beyond the production floor, students participated in presentations and interactive activities designed to put those concepts into practice. Team-based challenges encouraged students to explore design, problem-solving and collaboration, providing a hands-on connection between classroom learning and the skills used throughout the manufacturing industry.

“Our students and staff appreciated the opportunity to step inside of Ashley’s manufacturing facility and see firsthand how different skills and careers come together,” stated Damon Lisowski, Middle and High School Principal, Whitehall School District. “Experiences like this help students connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities and introduce them to career paths they may not have considered before.”

Participating schools included:

• North Carolina: Davie County Schools
• Wisconsin: Eleva-Strum, Blair Taylor, Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau, Whitehall School District, Holy Family Catholic School, Cochrane-Fountain City, Independence, and Arcadia School District
• Mississippi: North Pontotoc Upper Elementary, South Pontotoc Middle School and Ripley

Manufacturing month tours reinforce Ashley’s continued commitment to workforce development and community engagement. By welcoming students into its facilities, providing exposure to modern manufacturing and advanced technology, and creating opportunities to connect with industry professionals, Ashley is helping students explore potential career paths while building awareness of the skills and opportunities that will shape the future of manufacturing.