In Deloitte’s article, Creating Pathways For Tomorrow’s Workforce Today, they cite key findings from the 2021 Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute Manufacturing Talent study—some of which we’ll review in this blog.
First, we discuss the challenges manufacturers are up against today, then we provide some solutions to the growing skills gap, including working with one of the best manufacturing recruiters, Skillwork. As a skilled trades staffing agency, we can also help tradesmen find out what companies are hiring to secure manufacturing jobs.
Let’s jump into discussing the state of U.S. manufacturing.
The primary factory job hiring challenge manufacturers face today is finding the right skilled talent.
When sourcing production workers, skills and experience aren’t always what employers are looking for. Normally, as long as applicants have basic skills and aptitude (e.g., following directions, being dependable, willing to learn, etc.), they’re likely to be good fits for entry-level production jobs. High school graduates or those displaced from other industries are great candidates for these manufacturing jobs, but neither seems to be readily considering careers in manufacturing.
The second group that manufacturers are having difficulty recruiting is middle-skill workers. The manufacturing industry jobs these individuals hold require less than a four-year degree but more than a high school diploma. Most middle-skill jobs require workers to complete a hands-on, applied training program and possibly get licensed or certified. Middle-skill manufacturing jobs show the highest projected job openings during 2019-2029, placing pressure on the industry to fill those positions.
Finally, manufacturers are struggling to find and hire highly skilled workers. These workers are in demand because they tend to be equipped to work with advanced machines and technologies. As a result of the labor shortage, employers are de-emphasizing degrees, favoring those with demonstrated skills and competencies. However, many working in manufacturing don’t possess these advanced skill sets, making high-skill workers extremely valuable and hard to find.
Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of the global economy, but the industry is facing significant hiring challenges in the modern era. As simple as it may sound, here are some solutions to the skilled trades shortage for you to consider.
Partner with local high schools and trade schools to promote manufacturing careers, providing an alternative to attending a university after graduation. In addition to providing mentoring and apprenticeships, consider funding scholarships, donating equipment, or even providing adjunct teachers. By working with schools, manufacturing companies can develop a pipeline of skilled workers to help close the employment gap left by Baby Boomers.
Industry 4.0 is revolutionizing how goods are manufactured and distributed using automation, robotics, and other advanced technologies. Companies shouldn’t shy away from smart manufacturing technology but leverage it to their advantage. Over two-thirds of manufacturers surveyed by Rockwell Automation said that they believe technology can be very helpful in addressing workforce challenges.
Here are several ways companies can benefit from implementing technology:
While there’s a valid concern that technology in manufacturing will eliminate jobs, it will also open new opportunities for upskilling and reskilling workers to manage these machines and systems.
Many workers possess some of the skills needed to perform manufacturing jobs but may require additional training to become fully qualified for more technology-driven skilled trades positions. By investing in upskilling and reskilling, companies can fill new positions while providing valuable career development opportunities to their employees.
63% of surveyed manufacturers link the business benefits of DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) to an enhanced ability to attract, retain, and develop talent. Broaden your talent pipeline by reaching out to new demographics or communities that are traditionally underrepresented in manufacturing, such as veterans, women, and people of color.
Finally, companies can create referral programs to help attract new talent. By incentivizing employees to refer reliable candidates, companies can efficiently fill open positions. Referral programs can also help build a strong company culture, encouraging employees to take an active role in recruiting and building a team of people they want to work with.
If you’re without a job, a high schooler, or a college student that doesn’t feel like a university education is for you, consider pursuing a manufacturing career. Whether you have experience or not, there are opportunities available, from entry-level production jobs to more technical positions.
Here are several reasons why you should consider careers in manufacturing.
Whether you’re looking for workers or work, Skillwork can help.
As America’s premier skilled trades recruitment agency, we connect qualified tradesmen with employers across the country looking to fill manufacturing jobs, among other trades.
If you’re a skilled worker wondering what factories are hiring, we’re well-connected with manufacturers looking for people like you. Explore job opportunities in the trades by filling out an application today.
If you’re an employer hiring manufacturing workers, we can help you source qualified candidates. Schedule an obligation-free consult call to speak with one of our recruiters to find tradesmen with the skills you need to keep your factory running smoothly.
Contact us today to learn more about our staffing solutions.