The manufacturing skills gap is much more than an industry buzzword. It is a reality that, if unmet with practical solutions, can contribute to a loss of billions of dollars for the U.S. economy.
What is the Manufacturing Skills Gap?
The manufacturing industry has advanced quickly thanks to the adoption of technological enhancements. While this brings promise for a productive and lucrative future for the entire country’s economy, it also poses a problem when there lacks a workforce with the precise skills and training required.
Without adequate skills, a lot of job positions are left open, meaning that companies are unable to be as productive as they could be, and overall profitability falls short as well.
How Employers & Managers Can Help Bridge the Skills Gap in Manufacturing
Upgrade the Perception of What Manufacturing Entails
Many of the younger generations have the misconception that the manufacturing industry means standing on dirty, dusty floors in front of a conveyor belt for an entire eight hours. While this may have been a more accurate description of manufacturing work over fifty years ago, the industry has evolved into an almost unrecognizable market.
A company can highlight the clean, skills-required atmosphere of the real manufacturing work with its presence on social media. This is a great way to utilize different platforms in a professional way that may actually help shift the perspective of manufacturing work, and it can contribute to greater success not only for your company but for the entire economy as well.
Upskill Your Current Workers
It’s definitely important to consider how your existing employees might benefit from additional training to help them add competitive skills that can help them (and your company) thrive throughout industry advancements.
Skills Currently Lacking in the Manufacturing Industry
Here are some of the most required skills in the manufacturing industry. While employers will generally look for candidates with these skills, they are hard to come by. Keep these in mind when considering (later on in our post) how to implement an upskilling initiative at your company.
- Manufacturing Experience/Know-How: Previous work experience in the field or in a related area where skills are transferable
- Physical Know-How: Physical experience with manufacturing tools, such as welding and machining
- Digital Fluency: Having the aptitude for interpreting and using digital information
- Programming: Proficiency with computer programming languages and debugging tasks
- Problem Solving/Troubleshooting: The ability to process problems and find solutions
- Big Data Analytics: Understanding how to use advanced analytical techniques with large data sets
- Soft Skills: Consists of core or common skills, such as work ethic, communication, adaptability, teamwork, and leadership
Steps to Bridge the Gap or Upskill Employees at Your Company
To make the most of your efforts to bridge the skills gap, consider these steps to start upskilling at your company.
- Assess the skills your employees currently have
- Determine which skills you will need within the next 5-10 years
- Ensure your employees will buy into this initiative
- Set upskilling goals
- Consider learning formats and offer a variety for your employees
- Monitor progress so everyone can continue to improve and evolve to stay competitive
Find Skilled Workers for Your Open Positions
For expert help to find skilled workers who can help your company meet its goals, contact Expert Staffing.
