I recently read an interesting article in the New York
Times about how some manufacturers struggling to find workers they can hire
that have the proper skill set. The story focuses on how some factories are
adding jobs, but are having trouble filling these openings with qualified
workers.
The article states, "Plenty of people are applying for
the jobs. The problem, companies say, is a mismatch between the kind of skilled
workers needed and the ranks of the unemployed." The problem isn't going to be
unique to the manufacturing industry either.
As the economy continues to slowly bounce back, and those
with the necessary work experience retire, many other companies will face this
same issue. According to the article, some manufacturers in Ohio "project that
about 30 percent of the state's manufacturing workers will be eligible for
retirement by 2016."
To put it in perspective for you, one manufacturing
educator is quoted in the story as saying that "the new worker of tomorrow is
in about sixth grade." With the technological advancements and changes
happening in all of the trade industries, it's going to be more important than
ever for them to have the training and skills to keep the industry's workforce
thriving.
So how can electrical distributors be proactive about
this problem? Simply put, education is the best way to go. Ensure that your
current employees have the educational tools they need to keep learning and
growing; and in turn, keeping your company relevant to the industry.
Distributors with a well-trained staff can offer the best
ideas and solutions to customers. By stepping up the level of knowledge and
help your associates can provide customers, not only are you securing skilled
workers, you are also giving your company a competitive advantage.
Read the entire article.