The annual Tour of Manufacturing is back and bigger than ever.

More than 30 businesses, from Grand Rapids to Superior, opened their doors to students this week, providing a glimpse into their operations. Nearly 650 students registered. Participation has doubled compared to 2023.

IPS Cranes in Duluth is proud to be a part of the event. It is essentially the only company in the country that builds locomotive cranes. There are about 40 employees, many of whom are veterans, at this women-owned business.

Nate Jutila, vice president of sales and service at IPS, said the opportunity helped recruit new employees.

“It’s fun to see new people come into the store. And share that there are rewarding careers in this field,” he said.

Area Partnership for Economic Expansion (APEX), in collaboration with Lake Superior College, Lake Superior and True North Stars Perkins Consortium, Minnesota North College, MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (MN DEED), Center of Excellence MN State Advanced Manufacturing, Arrowhead Manufacturers Association (AMFA), Itasca Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and City of Duluth Workforce Development are proud to support this initiative.