By Mission Design & Automation
The Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast, hosted by Chris Luecke, recently stopped in Grand Rapids for its 193rd episode, recorded live at Founders Brewing. Mission Design & Automation‘s Vice President, Ryan Lillibridge, joined Ann Wyatt of Ann Wyatt Recruiting, and Willemijn Schneyder of SwipeGuide to discuss the issues plaguing many trade industries right now: the skills gap and a shrinking workforce. True to the podcast’s name, this discussion was had over locally brewed drinks at Founders.
The podcast episode, titled: “Discussing the Skills Gap Over a Beer,” meanders its way through conversations about the current state of the workforce in the manufacturing industry, finding the right people for the job, and attracting more people to jobs in trade fields. The collection of podcast guests represents different industry perspectives: a manufacturing company, a recruiting company, and a technology company.
How to Proactively Address Labor Shortages
During the live discussion, it was mentioned that often, companies react to a shortage of employees, rather than proactively anticipating the need for more people. A large driver of conversation was the numerous ways manufacturing companies can get on top of the dwindling workforce and get employees on their shop floor.
Here are some strategies we learned: 
1. Upskilling & Reskilling
2. Changing the Perception of Skilled Trades
3. Fostering an Engaging Work Environment
4. Widen the Net with Your Job Descriptions
5. Hire for Attitude & Aptitude
Upskilling & Reskilling Current Employees
Proactively training current employees for future roles can significantly reduce the stress of filling positions later. By focusing on future skills and sustainable careers, companies can foster an environment that encourages employee growth and long-term commitment.
“Stop reinventing the wheel by overlooking the workforce,” Schneyder said.
Changing the Perception of Skilled Trades
Ryan Lillibridge shared an encouraging story about a young woman proudly announcing her plans to enter a welding program at her graduation party, a stark contrast to his own high school experience where university plans dominated.
“If you didn’t have a university lined up, you would say something along the lines of “I’m going to community college while I figure that out,” Lillibridge said.
As jobs in manufacturing and other trade industries gain social acceptance, marketing these careers for what they are—exciting, engaging, and important—will continue to attract young talent.
Fostering an Engaging Environment and Positive Workforce
“I think it is important that manufacturers and all of us start to consider: What kind of environment are we creating in the workforce? How do we attract the talent?” Lillibridge said.
Adding to the topic, Ann Wyatt highlighted the need for employers to understand and mentor younger generations, fostering adaptability and critical thinking to build a resilient workforce.
Widening the Net with Your Job Descriptions
Ask yourself: Are your job descriptions too specific and seemingly unattainable? Qualified candidates may be ruling themselves out of a candidate pool before even applying, based on how the job description is written. If there are skills or experience listed on your job description that are not make-or-break for a candidate to have, remove or adjust them to create a more accessible barrier for entry. Being flexible with the skills required coming into your company could open the door to candidates that are better fit for your company long-term.
Hiring for Attitude and Aptitude
When candidates with the exact experience or qualifications are scarce, consider those with a positive attitude and potential for growth.
Willemijn noted that everyone has a lot of unlocked potential, and the right attitude, along with supportive colleagues, can help unlock it. Building a team that supports a positive culture enhances collaboration, training, problem-solving, and overall job satisfaction.
Implementing Proactive Workforce Strategies in Manufacturing
The conversations had during this episode of the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast inspires us as a company to remain committed to fostering growth, innovation, and a positive culture within our workforce. By implementing these forward-thinking approaches, we aim to lead the way in redefining the future of manufacturing careers.
Want to learn more? Click here to listen to the full episode!