Tools and technology are only a part of the future of the manufacturing industry in the United States. The workforce needs the skills and experience to succeed in a market where forces seek globalization and lower labor costs. It is precisely these skills that make American workers so valuable, and the knowledge that is required for modern manufacturing industry tasks does not come easily or cheaply. The United States may currently lack enough skilled workers to keep up with future demand.
As a part of the manufacturing industry, you have an insight into the current level of experience available in your local or regional labor market. It takes careful evaluation to determine whether or not worker skills are up to par, and incorrect skills assessment can lead to negative effects for a business or industry. Hiring managers and foremen must look to their own staff members and recruiting rosters to determine whether the necessary skills are available for the tasks at hand. Tackling the possible lack of worker skills in the current market, even at the most basic level, could reap great benefits later on.
Research indicates that the gap may not be as severe as the media often portray it. A 2012 study by the Boston Consulting Group shows that the gap in many areas could be filled by the addition of 80,000 to 100,000 highly skilled workers in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturers nationwide cite higher numbers, primarily because they must compete with overseas labor costs. Rock-bottom wages in manufacturing industry jobs may drive skilled workers to seek work in other professions instead of where their expertise may be the most valuable.
Where the studies do agree is that more highly skilled workers are needed to ensure that America remains a major force in manufacturing. Governmental programs and private initiatives are now available to spur on the development of skills to support the manufacturing sector in the future. The White House has announced new credentialing systems and development programs in an effort to curb the skill gap as soon as possible. Both philanthropic interests and manufacturing industry leaders have offered assistance to the government to ensure a bright future for highly skilled manufacturing jobs in the United States.
There does appear to be a serious lack of highly skilled employees in today's manufacturing industry. Although studies vary on how widespread the gap is and what remedies are required to alleviate the problems arising from a lack of skilled workers, the future is not bleak. Government and private initiatives look to ensure that America remains a strong force in the global manufacturing market, and the country benefits from manufacturing jobs that require skilled workers. A variety of factors affect how the manufacturing industry will fare over time, but steps are currently being taken to ensure that the workforce is ready for the future.
(Photo courtesy of Sura Nualpradid / freedigitalphotos.net)
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