For many years, the message to students has been consistent: go to college, earn a four-year degree, and success will follow. While that path is right for some, it’s not the only option—and for many, it may not be the best fit.
Across West Michigan, manufacturing continues to offer rewarding, stable, and well-paying careers that don’t require a traditional four-year degree. As demand for skilled workers grows, so do the opportunities for individuals who are willing to learn, work hard, and develop hands-on skills.
At Stone Plastics, we see this firsthand. Many of our team members began in entry-level roles and have grown into highly skilled positions through on-the-job training and continuous development. Careers in manufacturing today offer competitive wages, strong benefits, and clear paths for advancement—all without the burden of student loan debt.
We are proud to be part of an industry where someone can start with little to no experience and,
through effort and training, build a long-term, meaningful career. Roles in production, quality,
maintenance, and technical support all provide opportunities for growth and financial stability.
That’s why Stone Plastics proudly supports programs like MEPP. The MEPP program gives students early exposure to manufacturing through hands-on learning and real-world experience. It helps participants understand what modern manufacturing looks like while building the foundational skills that employers—like Stone Plastics—are actively seeking.
Just as important, MEPP helps students and families recognize that success doesn’t follow a single path. A four-year degree is one option, but skilled trades and manufacturing careers offer another—one that can lead to strong earnings, career advancement, and long-term stability.
At Stone Plastics, we are committed to investing in the next generation of talent and supporting
programs that help students explore all of their options. Because at the end of the day, success isn’t defined by a single path—it’s defined by finding the right one.
Brady Messock,
CAPS graduate and Stone Summer 2025 Intern
