The first step toward change is awareness

“The first step toward change is awareness.  The second step is acceptance.” Dr. Nathaniel Bradden, author, lecturer and therapist.

When I read the above quote, I thought about the challenges of today’s manufacturing sector and how it specifically relates to our work with existing manufacturers and national site location and industry project managers.

In a 2009 national survey, Americans believed that manufacturing was the most important industry for a strong national economy.  And while shown as important to the national economy, the survey also found that only 17 percent of schools and 13 percent of parents encouraged entry into a manufacturing sector which averages 22 percent higher earnings than other careers.

Ninety percent of manufacturers in the survey reported having difficulty finding skilled workers and that their average manufacturing worker was approaching 50 years of age. Both issues were of major concerns in their attempts to meet present and future workforce needs.  Our work with local industries and in responding to requests confirms the demand for more education, technical skills and industry-related capabilities than any time in the past.

A community that desires to remain competitive and successful must develop a workforce development system that links its workforce development and education systems together with the needs of a community.  Our existing manufacturers produce world known products in the food, automotive, boiler/freezer, metal, plastic and other industries.   The question will be are we able to meet the education and technical demands of a changing manufacturing industry and its workforce?

To distinguish our community from others we must continue our efforts to increase high school graduation rates and address the issue of developing additional technical training opportunities.  A program which includes the partnership of the community’s manufacturers, businesses, educators, government officials and others will certainly enhance our community’s competitiveness position and the quality of life for our citizens.