Inspiring Mississippi's Next Generation of Innovators
FlexFactor is the cornerstone of MS-SHIPS aimed at the K-12 demographic. FlexFactor introduces students to advanced manufacturing through hands-on design challenges, industry tours, and team-based problem solving. Students discover exciting career opportunities while developing the skills employers value most. FlexFactor is a program developed by NextFlex, one of the Manufacturing Innovation Institutes focused on Hybrid Electronics.
See Innovation in Action
This video captures the FlexFactor experience—from classroom collaboration and product design to industry tours and the final pitch competition. Students explored Mississippi’s advanced manufacturing industry, worked together to solve real-world challenges, and presented their innovative ideas to a panel of judges. Through hands-on learning and industry engagement, they’re building the confidence and skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce.
What Students Experience
- Design and Innovation: Create solutions to real-world challenges.
- Industry Tours: Visit manufacturing facilities across Mississippi.
- Team Collaboration: Work together to solve problems creatively.
- Pitch Competition: Present ideas to a panel of business and industry leaders.
- Career Exploration: Discover exciting careers in advanced manufacturing.
Program impact:
- 67% of participants are now more interested in STEM and advanced manufacturing careers.
- 82% have a heightened awareness of career opportunities in these fields.
- 84% have gained a deeper understanding of educational pathways leading to such careers.
Let's Collaborate:
We invite you and your school to join this transformative movement. Let’s prepare our next generation of innovators and thinkers by giving them the tools and opportunities to succeed. Interested in bringing FlexFactor to your classroom? Let’s connect!
Together, we can build a brighter future for our students and our industries.