Linfield College students from a variety of majors learned about local businesses during a tour in celebration of National Manufacturing Day.
Led by the Office of Career Development, students had a behind-the-scenes look at four McMinnville businesses — Riverbend Landfill, Applied Physics Technologies (APTech), Meggitt Polymer and Composites, and Grain Station Brew Works. Along with David Korb, assistant professor of accounting, students met professionals from the staffs and learned about career paths within the companies.
“It was a very valuable learning experience and gave me a tangible look at McMinnville manufacturing businesses,” said Alexander Ogle ‘16, a physics major. “It was informative to hear about the businesses from the owners.”
Three of the four locations employ Linfield alumni. Grain Station Brew Works is owned by Kelly McDonald ’90 and Meggitt employs two Linfield graduates. At APTech, the group was greeted by co-founder Bill Mackie ’71, professor of physics, and other Linfield alumni who work for the company, which specializes in thermionic and field emission cathodes.
“We want students to see first-hand that there are some great career opportunities right here in McMinnville,” said Kristi Mackay, assistant director of Career Development. “Students learned about four very different types of manufacturing and work environments. They also heard how important soft skills are in the hiring process – the ability to work on a team, integrity, honesty, loyalty and others.”
Learn more about the Office of Career Development.