Manufacturing Jobs are Increasing, but Labor Shortages Continue to Threaten the Growth Trajectory
The manufacturing industry is witnessing a surprising resurgence in the United States that emerged during the COVID-19 Pandemic and continues to show a growth trajectory for the next decade. Companies are re-aligning their efforts to meet evolving customer requirements, improve supply chain management, and take advantage of government policy to support growing their businesses. A study conducted by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute in 2024 determined that industry growth is expected to generate up to 3.8 million new jobs in manufacturing over the next decade. Still, labor shortages could leave half of the frontline roles unfilled, crippling the ability to meet customer demands.
As digital transformation strategies mature, higher skill levels will be needed to support the integration of technology into the manufacturing process. The shift could continue to increase the current skills gap while continuing the challenge of attracting the next generation of frontline workers. According to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), 80% of young people have a positive view of manufacturing and its importance to our society, yet only 17% view manufacturing as a top career choice.
As the industry has evolved and become more technologically advanced, modern manufacturing jobs that incorporate technological advancements involve complex tasks, problem-solving, and the use of advanced equipment to complete jobs that can help attract and retain the next generation of employees.
Attracting and Retaining Young Talent Requires Rethinking Traditional Employment Practices
To capitalize on the growth trajectory, manufacturing companies must invest in attracting and retaining young talent by applying an employee-centric strategy that focuses on workers’ needs and values. By creating a value-focused work environment that offers purpose and engages employees, you can deliver a better worker experience to attract and retain the next generation of talent.
Adapting to the changing needs and expectations of young workers can help create a resurgence in your frontline workforce in the current tight labor market. By investing in training, development, and a supportive work environment, manufacturing companies can attract and retain top talent, ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.
The Potential Allure of High-Tech Manufacturing to the Next Generation of Workers
One of the primary factors that could attract young people to manufacturing is the increasing technological sophistication of the industry. Advancements in automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) have created new and exciting job opportunities that require a diverse set of skills, from engineering and computer science to data analysis and problem-solving on the frontline. As manufacturing companies adopt new technologies, they will need to attract a new generation of skilled workers who can operate, maintain, and improve processes.
As more technology is integrated into manufacturing processes, workers who are comfortable bridging the gap between traditional frontline tasks and the use of technology are increasingly required. These individuals must be adept at both manual labor and the operation of advanced machinery and software. They need to understand how to effectively utilize technological tools to enhance efficiency and productivity while maintaining a strong foundation in core manufacturing processes. The new hybrid skill set is becoming increasingly essential as manufacturing becomes more automated and data-driven, making the industry a more attractive option for young people seeking challenging and fulfilling careers.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility are Increasingly Important
Sustainability and social responsibility are increasingly important topics for the next generation of workers. Younger professionals often seek meaningful employment that aligns with their values and contributes to a better future. They are more likely to be attracted to companies that prioritize environmental protection, ethical business practices, and social impact programs throughout their manufacturing processes.
Companies that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility tend to have stronger brand reputations that can lead to increased job applicants, employee satisfaction, and career advancement opportunities. Sustainability and social responsibility align with the values of many young people, and by putting this emphasis on your business practices, you can have a stronger appeal to attract and retain your next generation of workers.
Utilize Technology to Empower Workers and Make their Jobs Engaging
The future workforce has grown up with digital technology like the internet, social media, smartphones, YouTube, and other devices that put endless information at their fingertips. The internet has provided quick access to information on how to do just about anything in just about any format (video, articles, photos, etc.). Adopting the everyday experience into your employee worker experience can help keep them engaged and ensure they have the flexibility to learn and upskill faster.
Embracing technology in your training and upskilling programs helps transform traditional standard operating procedures (SOPs) or outdated work instructions into interactive and multimedia-rich step-by-step guides. Digital work instructions software can help transform your training experience in a way that enables your employees to find success and grow professionally.
Incorporating AI into digital work instruction solutions can significantly enhance the productivity and attractiveness of frontline manufacturing jobs. These solutions can also adapt to individual learning styles and skill levels, making the work more engaging and accessible to all frontline workers. By automating repetitive tasks and providing personalized support, AI-powered digital work instructions can help create a more fulfilling and rewarding work environment, attracting and retaining a new generation of manufacturing talent.
CDS Mentor is at the forefront of AI-enabled digital work instructions that can help you attract and retain the next generation of frontline workers. By creating a technology-first training program with a focus on embracing employee-centered work experiences, you can overcome labor shortages and enhance long-term sustainability.
Contact us today to learn more and see a demo of CDS Mentor for AI-enabled digital work instructions.
