At Catalyst Connection, we are inspired by the next generation of talent who are discovering the opportunities manufacturing has to offer. This summer, we were fortunate to welcome Nasir Brown, whose curiosity and perspective shed light on why manufacturing remains one of the most rewarding career paths today.
In his writing, Nasir emphasized that manufacturing is more than machines and materials. It is a career built on math, science, creativity, and teamwork—skills learned in school and applied to real-world problem solving. As he noted, “everywhere you look there is a different manufacturing job” — from welders and electricians to machinists and assemblers. These roles build the products and infrastructure that power our world.
Nasir’s reporting highlighted workforce development organizations in Pittsburgh, including Industrial Arts Workshop (IAW) and New Century Careers (NCC). At IAW, he found a community where welding is taught not only as a technical trade but also as a creative expression. Students described welding as both challenging and rewarding, with IAW providing a safe, supportive environment to explore their skills.
At NCC, Nasir interviewed students Jaden and Kioshi, who spoke about the confidence and career readiness the program instills. Jaden noted that the training is challenging at first but becomes more rewarding as skills grow. Kioshi, with prior aerospace manufacturing experience, praised NCC’s strong safety culture and the sense of purpose it provides.
Nasir’s reflections mirror Catalyst Connection’s mission: to connect people with opportunity, to showcase manufacturing as both stable and innovative, and to help prepare Southwestern Pennsylvania’s workforce for the future.
We are grateful for the time Nasir spent with us and look forward to seeing how he continues to advocate for the possibilities that manufacturing holds for his generation.
Read Nasir's articles below: