The Importance of Upskilling and Training in the Industrial Sector
The end of August means one thing for many…back-to-school season. Outside of the classroom, the emphasis on students and education this time of year is actually an important reminder for those in the industrial field as well. Our sector is rapidly changing with each technical advancement. As such, training is critical for keeping with the times now and demands of the future. So, where do we stand on preparing the current and future manufacturing and industrial workforce?
The Growing Need for a Skilled Workforce
To answer that question, it’s first important to understand the growth happening in the industry. According to Deloitte, “Manufacturing employment has surpassed pre-pandemic levels and stands close to 13 million as of January 2024.” A significant contributor to this growth is the increase in clean technology and semiconductor manufacturing. In turn, there is a pressing need for workers.
Yet, as Deloitte also explains, finding and keeping the right talent is “the primary business challenge indicated by over 65% of respondents in the National Association of Manufacturers’ (NAM) outlook survey for the first quarter of 2024.” Meanwhile, EY and The Manufacturing Institute found that 82% of organizations they surveyed were looking for new ways to invest in their workforce.
Addressing the Skills Gap
One way to attract talent is to set up programs that capture their interest early. In a piece for Industry Week, Josh Cramer suggests establishing programs now that are designed to teach the future workforce not just how to handle evolving tech, but the whole manufacturing process.
There also needs to be a focus on ensuring that a range of skills are taught, from technical manufacturing skills and digital skills to soft skills. This will help to address what Deloitte found to be some of the most needed areas of capabilities, which include but are not limited to simulation and simulation software skills, client support skills, machinery maintenance skills, and skills in advanced processes like 3D printing.
By taking upskilling and training seriously, we are more likely to better handle the net need for around 3.8 million employees between 2024 and 2033 and avoid the almost 1.9 million that could remain unfilled.
Sources:
● “Taking charge: Manufacturers support growth with active workforce strategies” - John Coykendall, Kate Hardin, John Morehouse, Victor Reyes, & Gardner Carrick, Deloitte
● “How adaptive skills can play a pivotal role in building the manufacturing sector of the future” - EY and The Manufacturing Institute
https://www.ey.com/en_us/the-manufacturing-institute-adaptive-skills-study
● “The US Must Lead the Way in Advanced Manufacturing Talent” - Josh Cramer, Industry Week