Workforce News

Manufacturing is woven into America’s history. For generations, the people who make things in America have powered our economy, strengthened our communities and helped move our country forward. 

This Labor Day, the Manufacturing Institute honors the workers who built the industry we know today and commits to creating opportunities for those who will carry it forward. 

The challenge ahead is real. Manufacturers need to help people see the opportunities available in modern manufacturing and give workers the skills they need to succeed. But no employer can—and should—solve a challenge of this scale alone. Building the workforce of tomorrow will take employers, educators, workforce organizations and communities working together.  

• If we don’t take action, we could see 1.9 million unfilled jobs by 2033, according to our research with Deloitte.  

The MI helping manufacturers tackling these challenges through proven solutions. 

Through FAME USA, the MI works with companies to create local chapters and supports them with the tools, resources and guidance needed to make those programs successful — building skilled talent pipelines for the critical technician roles manufacturers need most.  

• Our upcoming research with Deloitte shows that the demand for skilled technicians is high and only growing. 

Through STEP Ahead, the MI helps manufacturers recognize, develop and retain talented employees, providing resources and support to strengthen their workforce from within. 

And as technology transforms the way people work, the MI is helping workers build new skills for an AI-enabled manufacturing future. Our AI Skills initiative, launched earlier this year, gives frontline workers a fundamental understanding of how they can use AI to support safety, quality and productivity on the plant floor.  

• Manufacturing Leadership Council research shows that more than half of manufacturers are already using AI in their operations — but skills gaps can keep companies from realizing their full potential. 

Manufacturing’s greatest competitive advantage has always been its people. Investing in them is how we compete. It’s how we grow. It’s how we make America strong.  

This Labor Day, let’s celebrate the workers who brought us here, and work together to build the skilled workforce that will take American manufacturing forward.