Guest blogpost, Natalia Rey, Santa Clara University Fellow, 2022-23 

The SIATech Charter student asked a question about the machine that was engaged in rapid prototyping of an aluminum part for a client in the medical industry. Jaime Nevarez explained how the machine is controlled by a  computer program. Jaime, the founder and owner of Nevarez Machining, has been committed to manufacturing quality parts for 22 years now. Nevarez’ roots are in Durango, Mexico, where the scorpion claims an ancient place in Mexican lore. He uses a scorpion as an emblem for his brand, acknowledging his father’s admirable pursuit of a better life. His father’s grit has evidently been reflected in the high-quality cost-efficient services at Nevarez Machining. 

Jaime Nevarez is an inspirational example of an entrepreneur embedding family values into a revered business and he was among the CEOs of San José's manufacturers who opened their doors to high school students in honor of California’s Manufacturing Week, October 10th – 14th, 2022. Engineers, CEOs and managers gave students tours of their facilities, pointing out everything from laser-cutting machines to welding machine capabilities.  Participating manufacturers included San José's Bestronics, Acosta Sheet Metal, Nevarez Machining, Vander-Bend Manufacturing, and GAF Energy.   

Bringing high school students to the factory floor is a City of San initiative that shines a light on self-made entrepreneurs like Jaime Nevarez, and helps to create workforce opportunities for young people.  

Student participants were exposed to the diverse industries served by manufacturers, where there is a fit for almost every interest imaginable, including semiconductors, transportation, commercial, marine or aerospace. Moments of peak engagement sparked a new respect for a career in manufacturing, enhancing the companies' chances for recruiting employees from our local schools.  

San José’s manufacturing industry is expansive and full of possibilities, offering entry-level employment and training, with advancement opportunities and wages that can support a comfortable way of life even in expensive Silicon Valley.  Because the entry-level jobs offer specialized training, four-year college degrees are not necessary for a good career.  The participating high schools that were brought in to learn from facilities included Independence High School, Yerba Buena, SIATech Charter, Goodwill of Silicon Valley, William C. Overfelt, and Piedmont Hills High School. 

The events for Manufacturing Week 2022 in San  José were planned and conducted by Manufacture : San  José (MFG: SJ), a public-private initiative, with the goal to drive resources, knowledge, and visibility to the city’s more than 1200 manufacturers and the more than 65,000 men and women they employ. Launched in  2018, MFG : SJ is a partnership of the City of San José and the non-profits CMTC California’s Manufacturing Network, and SFMade.