Sean Hart, Chief Executive Officer And Managing Partner, POWERS
Manufacturing is facing a tough reality. The industry could need 3.8 million new workers by 2033, with up to 1.9 million jobs at risk of going unfilled due to a skilled workforce shortage.
As a C-suite leader, this isn’t just a statistic—it’s a call to action. If you don’t tackle this head-on, the industry could lose $1 trillion in revenue by 2030. In this first article of my August series on Workforce Engagement, I’m sharing practical strategies to help you address the talent shortage, keep top talent, and build a workforce ready for the long haul.
The Talent Crunch: An Executive Challenge
The manufacturing workforce is changing fast. Experienced workers are retiring, taking critical know-how with them. Younger talent isn’t rushing to fill manufacturing jobs, put off by outdated views of the industry. And with Industry 4.0—automation, IoT, and data-driven systems—half of employers are struggling to find people with the tech skills needed.
Practical Ways to Fill the Talent Gap
To close the skills gap, you need smarter hiring. Data-driven hiring can transform your approach—AI tools and analytics pinpoint top talent, even those not actively looking, on platforms like LinkedIn. These systems cut through the clutter, matching candidates to roles faster and better.
Partnerships are another key. Programs like the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) blend community college learning with hands-on training, delivering a 90% placement rate for grads. Wichita State University’s applied learning programs get students ready for smart factories through real-world projects. By teaming up with technical colleges—73% of manufacturers do this—universities, or local groups, you can secure a steady stream of skilled workers.
These folks often have transferable skills—like equipment maintenance or process know-how—and can be trained quickly to fill gaps.
Keeping and Growing Top Talent
Retention is where engagement drives results for you. Flexible work options are a big win—47% of manufacturers say flexible shifts or shift swapping keep workers happy. It’s about meeting people where they are, especially when work-life balance is a priority. Offer training and clear paths to grow, and employees are 2.7 times less likely to leave within a year. Career growth paths matter—workers want to know they’re not stuck, and tailored training keeps them engaged. In fact, 72% of manufacturing workers say they’re satisfied when employers invest in their development.
Leadership training is critical. Too many frontline supervisors lack the people skills to keep teams motivated, and bad management drives turnover.
Training supervisors in communication and problem-solving builds a workplace where people want to stay. Companies that focus on clear career paths and agile structures see real gains in keeping talent.
Building a Talent Pipeline for the Long Haul
To future-proof the workforce, invest in people and the next generation. Upskilling programs are a must—50% of workers will need new skills by 2025 to keep up with Industry 4.0. Digital tools like tablets or smartphones make on-the-job training easy, helping workers master automation or robotics.
Apprenticeships are a proven way to bring in young talent. One flooring manufacturer partnered with local high schools for paid work experiences and apprenticeships, keeping 100% of their graduating seniors in 2023. These programs show kids that manufacturing is a career with a future at your company.
And don’t forget company culture. A strong employee value proposition (EVP) that highlights purpose, growth, and flexibility is a magnet for talent.
Time for You to Act
The skilled workforce shortage isn’t going away, but it’s also a chance to stand out. With smart hiring, strong partnerships, and a focus on flexibility, growth, and culture, you can turn workforce engagement into a competitive edge.
About POWERS
As manufacturing productivity experts and a leading management consulting firm, POWERS can help you make this happen. Frontline leadership development and workforce engagement are a core part of our offering. We can help you develop your team, improve morale and retention while reducing turnover, labor cost, and overtime.
With DPS, our Digital Production System, we offer an easy-to-train, quick-to-implement, scalable software solution that delivers real-time, actionable insights to optimize your operations, from shift startups to downtime reduction, ensuring your workforce is engaged and your processes are efficient.
The clock’s ticking—build an engaged, ready workforce now, and you’ll set your company up for success tomorrow. To learn more about how POWERS can drive your productivity and workforce engagement, contact us at +1 678-971-4711 or info@thepowerscompany.com.
- Speak to an Expert: Call +1 678-971-4711 to discuss your specific challenges and goals.
- Email Us: Get tailored insights by emailing info@thepowerscompany.com
- Request an Assessment: Use our online contact form, and one of our expert manufacturing consultants will reach out to schedule an in-depth analysis of your operations.
