YOUTH
We are building the next generation of innovators, makers, and creators.
To sustain the local manufacturing industry we need to invest in our youth.
Through hands-on programs and valuable insights, we introduce, inspire, and connect local youth with the world of manufacturing, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Explore our Youth Programs
FlexFactor®
FlexFactor introduces youth to manufacturing and STEAM by nurturing critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and teamwork. Through hands-on challenges, they learn to think and pitch like innovators and entrepreneurs.
Internships
In partnership with local workforce organizations, we place youth in local manufacturing companies where they gain real-world experience, build professional skills, and explore pathways into high-demand careers.
Industry Tours
Our factory tours are a way to showcasing our youth the world of local manufacturing. These visits bring the manufacturing world to life and spark curiosity about careers in the field.
Career Exposure
Through engaging career talks and panels, youth meet local makers and innovators, learn about pathways into manufacturing, and explore why this industry can be a strong fit for their future.
FlexFactor®
FlexFactor® is our flagship youth program, designed to integrate into existing K–12 classrooms. Students work in small teams to identify a real-world problem, design a hardware-based solution, build a business model around their idea, and pitch it in front of industry professionals.
Through the program students are introduced to advanced manufacturing and entrepreneurship, along with the education and career pathways connected to these fields. It sparks interest in these industries while helping students develop essential skills that prepare them for future success, like critical thinking, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
FlexFactor® Program Sessions
IDENTIFY A PROBLEM
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Kick off & Problem Identification Workshop
DEVELOP A SOLUTION
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Product Design & Development Workshop
CREATE A BUSINESS MODEL
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Business Model Workshop
PITCH THE CONCEPT
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Slide Deck Workshop
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Rehearsal & Feedback
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Final Pitch
EXPLORE CAREER OPTIONS
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Industry Field Trip
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College Field Trip
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Career Readiness Workshop
Our youth impact last year
FLEXFACTOR®
500+
students learned to think like innovators and entrepreneurs through FlexFactor
FACTORY TOURS
650+
youth stepped inside local manufacturers to experience them firsthand
CAREER EXPOSURE
220+
youth explored manufacturing careers through industry talks and panels
INTERNSHIPS
40+
interns gained hands-on experience at local manufacturing companies
Fuel the next generation of innovators
Donate today to bring our flagship program, FlexFactor®, to more local youth. Your support helps them build soft skills, engage in hands-on projects, visit factories, and explore local career pathways in STEM and advanced manufacturing.
To give by check, please mail your donation to:
SFMade
150 Hooper Street, Unit 200
San Francisco, CA 94107