Input Stories

At Oskaloosa Middle School in Iowa, the future of manufacturing is taking shape today. The Quest for the Crystal of Innovation (also known as the Innovators Quest)—a gamified experience that introduces students to modern manufacturing careers—is engaging students in hands-on challenges in robotics, circuitry and teamwork.

In an age where classrooms increasingly rely on digital learning, this active, physical experience helped some students uncover new strengths and interests—potentially leading to careers that will last a lifetime.

The quest: Developed by the Manufacturing Institute, the NAM’s workforce development and education affiliate, thanks to a grant from American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Innovators Quest is made up of four “realms” laid out in a board game format.

• These realms include hands-on building challenges that introduce students to core manufacturing skills, like problem-solving, teamwork and communication.
• As they seek to recover the “Crystal of Innovation,” students in grades 4 through 9 try their hands at 3D printing, robotics and other cutting-edge manufacturing concepts.

Manufacturers’ involvement: Manufacturers, associations, workforce partners and community engagement groups can sponsor Innovators Quest kits, which they can use at schools, summer camps, local community events, MFG Day events, company family days and more.

• By facilitating the experience, manufacturers serve as the connector between Innovators Quest and real-world manufacturing.

The reception: “It’s been fun to see the ones who really light up,” said Kristen McMains, talent outreach specialist at Musco Lighting, who brought the experience to Oskaloosa’s classroom. “Teachers have told us, ‘That student doesn’t usually engage like this,’ and suddenly, they’re the one leading their group.”

• “I learned that I’m pretty good with wires and building stuff,” said Kolter Ozinga, an 8th grader who participated in the experience. “I like electrical work and teamwork.”

The big picture: Innovators Quest comes at a critical time for the manufacturing workforce. A 2024 study by the MI and Deloitte projected that as many as 1.9 million manufacturing jobs could be left unfilled by 2033, when current 5th graders will be graduating high school. Today’s youth could be key to filling this talent gap—if they know the careers are out there.

• “Kids can’t be what they can’t see,” said MI President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee. “By sparking their interest in skills used in modern manufacturing, this student engagement activity illustrates the limitless possibilities of the many careers in our industry. The time to invest in our future workforce is now.”

Get involved: Interested in bringing Innovators Quest to your community? The MI is accepting orders for Innovators Quest kits through Jan. 31. Learn more about the kit and place your order today.