4 Ways to Bridge the Manufacturing Skills Gap

The Skills Gap

What it Means: The skills gap is an overwhelming disparity between what manufacturers need to fill important jobs and the skill sets that today’s pool of candidates currently possesses.

Why it Matters: As Baby Boomers retire over the coming years, employers will see a severe shortage of qualified candidates that are able to meet America’s growing manufacturing needs.

Although the skills gap is not a new problem, it will become a serious concern over the next decade.

In fact, a 2015 Deloitte study concluded that the skills gap will grow to 2 million by 20125, leaving manufacturing plants severely understaffed.

To understand why this is happening, let’s take a look at some numbers:

Despite these numbers, 90% of Americans agree that manufacturing is vitally important to the economy

66% of Americans worry that the industry is not stable enough to sustain long term careers

45% of Americans believe that manufacturing offers limited advancement options

65% of Americans would NOT encourage their kids to pursue a career in manufacturing

So, what can you do to bridge the skills gap?

Here are four pro-active ways you can help…

1. Provide in-house training

Offering on-the-job training helps you tailor current employee’s skills to your specific needs

It will also keep employees loyal to the company and even more motivated to work.

2. Connect with local schools.

Forging partnerships with local schools will help educate the community’s younger generations about the importance of manufacturing.

To build educational programs and initiatives, reach out to: high schools, community colleges, trade schools

Doing so may renew interest in manufacturing as well as broaden the talent pool over the coming years.

3. Establish relationships with other manufacturers.

If there are other manufacturers in your area with similar needs and goals, it’s a good idea to combine your efforts.

Together you can: -Raise awareness about the skills gap -Encourage a more positive perception of the industry -Educate the community about the benefits and opportunities available in manufacturing

4. Relay a positive message

Many of today’s young people believe that manufacturing is a dirty and dangerous job.

It’s up to YOU to change that perception.

Here’s what you can do: -Open your doors to the community. You can host open houses, give tours, and conduct seminars. -Offer internship and job shadowing programs so students can get a hands-on understanding of what manufacturing is all about. -Attend career days at local schools to encourage young people to explore the world of manufacturing.

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