AIS is More than Furniture.
Philanthropy is in our DNA and we regularly give back to the communities AIS serves. At the AIS headquarters and across the nation, dedicated staff involvement with community organizations make a difference every day in enhancing the lives of others and, ultimately, making the world a better place.
See our AIS gives back brochure.
The Future of the Manufacturing Workforce
AIS Gives Back through Real-World Experience
Manufacturing is not the dark, dirty, dangerous place that some still think it is. In fact, it’s modern, clean, and full of technology – and getting smarter all the time. That’s not to mention the myriad jobs available with learning and advancement opportunities.
AIS’ manufacturing team has taken a special interest in getting the word out, especially to young people looking for well-paying jobs that can become a career. Each year, the team welcomes interns from both vocational and traditional high schools, community colleges, and colleges and universities offering 4-year degrees and beyond.
This year, seven interns are slated to start work in a variety of departments including casegoods, electrician, manufacturing technology, and maintenance – just to name a few – with still more applications coming in.
According to Sergio Gomez, value stream manager for AIS, “We expose students to real life work experiences and that helps them to decide what they may want to do in the future. Some decide that it’s not for them. But many others discover that they like it and see career possibilities.”
The hands-on exposure is invaluable to these young people who are on the precipice of a decision about how they want to earn a living. Experiencing real world employment at AIS helps to demystify manufacturing, and it supports our communities.
“Even better, unlike many other companies, AIS pays the student interns for their work,” continued Gomez. “Attaching a paycheck to work is a fundamental life lesson, one that will help shape many decisions in their lives.”
Because the company compensates interns for their work, along with providing valuable experience, internships at AIS are very desirable. To select students with the right fit, the company has a simple interview process helping to ensure successful outcomes.
Students are matched with fellow employees, many of whom began in similar roles, and who are now managers and now mentors to the next generation. With even more opportunities for advancement in their careers, these role models provide inspiration and help these youth to set goals for a future, many in manufacturing.
AIS works with many organizations and educational institutions to promote opportunities in manufacturing. On March 20, AIS was recognized by one such entity, MassHire, a Massachusetts organization dedicated to fostering connections between educators and employers to equip the workforce of tomorrow. At the conference, AIS was presented with the Career Catalyst Award in honor of the company’s support for future leaders in manufacturing.
“AIS remains committed to helping to fill the workforce pipeline for the region’s manufacturers,” commented Steve Savage, COO at AIS who oversees production operations at the company. “We make more than just furniture; we help make futures.”
Providing Opportunities for Non-Traditional Workers
At AIS, we advocate for developing a strong, diverse workforce. We promote a culture in which our team members are accepted and their talents are nurtured. Each individual is just that, an individual with unique experiences, ideas, contributions, and approaches.
Acceptance and appreciation for those who think and process information differently provides unique perspectives. AIS mentors work with members of the Radiance program to reach their goals, and together make beautiful and functional products.
Read more about AIS Radiance. See the Worcester Business Journal article.
