Iowans throughout the state will have easy access this month to a variety of events touting the benefits of a career in manufacturing. At least 125 events have been scheduled in nearly every county statewide to celebrate National Manufacturing Day on Oct. 2. Events such as factory tours and educational seminars will be held on Friday and throughout the month. Industry advocates hope that a broader exposure to modern manufacturing will help change some outdated perceptions. The scheduling was made possible through work by Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service, the Elevate Iowa campaign, Iowa’s 15 community colleges, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry, ISU Extension and Outreach and others. Manufacturing is a $31.2 billion industry in Iowa, the state’s second-largest sector behind financial services. A complete list of events can be found online.