Over the last few years, manufacturers within the United States have been experiencing labor shortages due to the decrease in skilled laborers. This declining workforce has been fueled by a number of factors: a large number of laborers reaching retirement age, decreases in the number of shop classes offered in high school, and the misconception of manufacturing careers as unglamorous and low-paying. However, many manufacturing careers actually offer great pay along with advancement opportunities. Another plus is that many manufacturers are currently hiring, even during this slow economy.
Several organizations are looking to change the negative stereotypes of manufacturing. One of these is Nuts, Bolts, and Thingamajigs, a foundation created by the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association. The goal of this organization is to change the negative perceptions regarding manufacturing careers and inspire young people to pursue careers in the manufacturing sector. Partnering with colleges and manufacturers across the country, they hold several manufacturing camps for high school students and award scholarships to many students that plan on earning a degree or certification in manufacturing.
Manufacturing is an exciting industry offering plenty of rewarding careers, so it is important to keep the youth interested. So please, grab your gloves, your hammers, and your welding torches, and help us create the next great manufacturing generation!
