8/5/2016
On Friday, October 7, manufacturers nationwide will join together and celebrate National Manufacturing Day! The holiday was established to raise awareness about the positive impacts manufacturing has on the economy and change the prevailing perception of manufacturing careers in the U.S. for future generations.
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve with innovation and technological advancements, it is important that future generations become accustomed to the new face of manufacturing and understand how vital the manufacturing sector is to the economic growth and future of America. Manufacturing Day enables manufacturers from all over the country to highlight their work and influence the potential future pool of skilled workers.
Manufacturers, engineers and academic institutions are encouraged to open their doors on National Manufacturing Day to students, educators, parents and the media so the public can understand and appreciate the processes of local manufacturers and the wide array of job opportunities they have available within the industry.
Why is this so important for Michigan’s manufacturers?
As you may have experienced or read about, an aging demographic has created a skills gap in the industry. Nearly 1.6M out of 3M open manufacturing jobs are projected to go unfulfilled by the year 2025. Over the years, the younger generations have chosen alternative careers and areas of study, contributing to the lack of skills suitable for manufacturing.
The main driver for this lack of interest in manufacturing is perception. Many younger professionals envision manufacturing as a career of hazard, dirt, and manual labor. They don’t see the high-tech careers often associated with manufacturing today! They also don’t realize the wide-range of positions in manufacturing facilities such as sales, marketing, administration, accounting, etc. Their perception of “old school” workers getting dirty on an assembly line MUST be changed to one of technological advancement, innovation and economical accomplishment.
- Only 37 percent of parents encourage their kids to enter manufacturing and only 18 percent of people view manufacturing as a top career choice.
- Manufacturing jobs pay well. An annual salary averages more than $77K and manufacturing professionals have the highest level of job tenure in the private sector.
- 84 percent of U.S. manufacturers are experiencing a moderate to severe shortage of skilled workers and 87 percent of American manufacturers believe this issue will impact the ability to meet customer demands.
- By 2025, it is projected that there will be 2M jobs available in U.S. manufacturing.
The Result
Manufacturers must take a proactive approach in changing the upcoming generations’ perception of manufacturing in the U.S. They must be educated! People who are familiar with the industry of manufacturing and its multiple benefits are twice as likely to encourage children to pursue a career in manufacturing. National Manufacturing Day raises awareness about these types of issues. We can join together and help cultivate the next generation of manufacturing leaders!
Useful Links:
If you are a manufacturer who is looking to become more efficient, productive and globally competitive, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center can help. Click here for a list of our services or contact us at 888-414-6682 or via email at inquiry@mmtc.org.
About Us
Since 1991, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center has assisted Michigan’s small and medium-sized businesses successfully compete and grow. Through personalized services fitted to meet the needs of clients, we develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence and foster creative strategies for business growth and greater profitability. Find us at on the web at www.mmtc.org.
Categories: Manufacturing Day