Alumni Morgan Hampton and Matthew Vaselovic visited the class and gave updates on their businesses. Matt has continued his smoothie business, Blenders and will be at the Mattoon High School's girl's soccer game. Morgan discontinued her business told the class she is more confident and outgoing since taking this class.

Jeff Doyle, general manager of the Mattoon General Electric Lighting facility, enlightened the class on the changing environment and why the GE plant is closing.  Since 1946, GE has made all types of lights or flashcubes at this large manufacturing facility. They will be closing their doors in August due to low demand of incandescent lights. 

This shift in consumer lighting trends from incandescent to the more energy efficient LED lights plus uncompetitive labor and benefit costs from overseas competitors are the two reasons that the plant in closing.  Jeff told students to remain flexible, be willing to move, get overseas experience if possible, and make sure the company's culture fits your culture are very important to have a successful manufacturing career.