The great skill gap in manufacturing continues to widen, as underscored by Deloitte’s research, which found that 2.1 million unfilled jobs will go on to cost the United States roughly $1 trillion in 2030 alone. We know there are various reasons for the current and future lack of talent, mainly resulting from an aging workforce, technological advancements with skillsets not keeping up, and an outdated view of what a role in manufacturing looks like reminiscent of the hazardous, unglamorous work conditions depicted in “The Jungle” by American novelist, Upton Sinclair.
According to the US Chamber of Commerce, 45 per cent of job openings in the manufacturing sector remain unfulfilled. The World Economic Forum’s 2023 Future of Jobs report highlights that 40 of the current skill requirements in advanced manufacturing will evolve over the next five years. Leaders have sounded the alarm according to a survey by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), nearly 75 per cent of manufacturing managers cited skilled labour shortages as their primary business challenge.
Manufacturers are grappling with a significant labour shortage that demands urgent attention, but what can businesses do to prepare for the looming talent crisis? Below we explore the key steps to put for empowering workers through targeted upskilling programs, ensuring resilience and growth in the face of workforce challenges.
Fostering future-ready workforces through strategic upskilling initiatives
Labour shortages in the manufacturing sector are now endemic and expected to worsen. It is imperative for manufacturing companies to invest in upskilling and reskilling initiatives. By implementing targeted training programs aligned with evolving job roles and leveraging innovative methods like gamification, (use it to make the reskilling more engaging!), manufacturers can empower their workforce to adapt, thereby alleviating labour shortfalls in the business. Embracing these strategies will not only bridge the skills gap but also position manufacturing firms for sustained growth and competitiveness in the global market.
Furthermore, specialised training programs, such as the SIRI/COSIRI Programme offered by INCIT, can support leaders with their ongoing skill development with this certification, which advances digitalisation and sustainability practices within manufacturing. Embracing these strategies will not only bridge the skills gap but also position manufacturing firms for sustained growth and competitiveness in the global market.
