The Milpitas City Council presented certificates of commendation Dec. 2 to event partners that supported the city’s ninth annual Manufacturing Day. Economic Development Coordinator Michael Thomas outlined the program, which engaged about 92 participants this year, including 58 high school students and adult learners from Milpitas High School, Calaveras Hills High School and the MUSD Innovation Campus.

City staff and school trustees praised hands-on activities such as soldering workshops and facility tours that introduced students to manufacturing careers. Mayor Carmen Montano and councilmembers thanked site hosts and businesses — including Flex Ltd., VM Services and the Great Mall — for underwriting student lunches, providing banners and hosting tours. Leaders said the event strengthens ties between the city and Milpitas Unified School District and helps expose students to local employment opportunities in manufacturing and technology.

Representatives from Flex and local site hosts described the company footprint in Milpitas and commitment to continued partnership and workforce pathways for students. Staff recommended that the council issue certificates of commendation to this year’s partners; council completed the recognition during the meeting.