We Can Solve the Skilled Manufacturing Worker Shortage

By: Matthew Schowalter

Over the last 5 years, I have been observing the manufacturing industry worker shortage.  The drastic change that I have seen over my 24-year career is alarming. While most industries change over time, I believe the changes that are happening to manufacturing are more than that.  We are in a worker shortage crisis. 

                The decline in a skilled workforce is great.  As a leader in a shop, there were long stretches of having no applicants for open positions.  These were jobs that needed to be filled immediately to keep the workflow going.  In this instance, I had to wear many hats to keep my department functioning.  Basic jobs that an apprentice would be tasked with were left empty.  Lack of apprentices is not the only problem.

                The gap will only widen as the retiring workforce continues to come out of the industry with no one left to fill their positions.  We are already seeing the effects.  I believe the most impactful solution is to inspire the youth into our industry. We must find a way to bring back the idea that manufacturing can be a fulfilling career.

                I have participated in career fairs, published an inspirational article on my career and helped produce a video promoting youth apprenticeships.  With these projects I have seen that our industry is lacking in engaging the local youth.  Working together on a local level within our communities is key.  Career fairs, open housing events and inspirational videos are only a few of the things we can collaborate on within our unique communities. 

                To bring inspiration to our industry, I have created a blog.  Within this blog I promote soft skills, hard skills and work ethic with articles that focus on manufacturing.  I have recruited two regular writers that have worked in our industry.  One is a professional engineer and the other is a job developer with a master’s degree in psychology.  I have chosen to dedicate my attention full time to the efforts of this blog and believe it will inspire others to join the fight.  In conclusion I believe that the 4 C’s to end the worker shortage crisis are, collaboration, communication, and connection on a consistent basis and is just what our industry needs. 

“The Key to solving the manufacturing worker shortage lies within the insight gained from local collaborations. These local partnerships will enhance communications within the industry and inspire a growth the likes to which, have never been seen.”

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT