Manufacturing Day Ireland 2026
Opening doors and minds to a highly skilled future
Ibec will be hosting its second Manufacturing Day Ireland on Friday, 2 October 2026 to raise the sector’s profile and spark interest in manufacturing careers. This nationwide initiative invites businesses across the country to showcase the modern, high-tech reality of Irish manufacturing and inspire the next generation of industry talent.
Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our economy, creating thousands of highly skilled, well-paid jobs, supporting the growth of communities, and improving quality of life for all. However, Ibec research reveals a significant perception gap: just 39% of parents are aware of the career opportunities available in the sector, with outdated ‘factory line’ stereotypes still shaping public views.
Manufacturing Day Ireland was created to bridge this gap. By opening facility doors and sharing real-life stories, the campaign demonstrates that modern manufacturing is smart, sustainable, and highly innovative while also welcoming, rewarding, and built on a culture of creativity and collaboration.
How to get involved: Host or support
Every company can play a part in changing perceptions, regardless of size or sector. Like last year, there are two primary ways to participate:
- Become an Event Host: Open your doors to students, educators, jobseekers, and your local community. Host a site tour, run a hands-on technology demonstration, or organise a career panel featuring your team.
- Become a Campaign Supporter: If hosting a site visit is not feasible, you can still champion the industry. Use the day to celebrate your staff internally, share your team’s success stories on social media using the official campaign assets, or partner virtually with local schools.
What to expect on Friday, 2 October 2026
Participating sites across the country can tailor their engagement to suit their operations. This is a unique opportunity to open minds as well as doors.
Key activities include:
- Career talks and panels tailored for those looking to enter the sector.
- Interactive demonstrations featuring cutting-edge, hands-on technology.
- Factory and site tours showcasing advanced automation and world-class products.
- Real stories shared directly by Ireland’s makers, innovators, and sustainability champions.
- Recognising and celebrating the creativity and collaboration of the current workforce.
Get involved today
This is a collective opportunity to strengthen your local community links, boost team pride, and protect the future talent pipeline of Irish manufacturing.
- How to sign up: Registration is now open. When you register, your event will be added to our interactive Google Map on our website, allowing local schools, students, and jobseekers to find you.
- A comprehensive suite of resources, including planning guides, promotional toolkits, and sample materials are available on our website to support your event every step of the way.
Register your company and pin your event on our map here.
Opening doors and minds: Host a site visit in 2026 to help inspire the next generation of talent, just like these participants did in 2025.
