We need to get better at making manufacturers

Nearly every metal manufacturer I speak with admits that the No. 1 problem our industry faces today is the inability to find qualified shop floor workers.

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a skilled-trades Big Bang. Fully trained, ready-made machinists, technicians, programmers, and operators don’t just coalesce from sump sludge, swarf, and worn-out inserts in a moment of spontaneous creation. They have to be made.

While the tried-and-true method of filling talent vacancies – poaching -- still is being performed quite successfully in shops all across the country, it’s a stop-gap measure at best. If you’re willing to pay $1.50 more an hour or offer an extra week of paid vacation, you can easily fill an immediate staffing need. But it just ignores the original, long-term problem.

Here’s a little advice on attracting staff:

1. Start inside.

It’s easier to lose a good employee than it is to gain one. In-house training combined with career path development lets your entry-level hires know that there is a path forward at your company and helps keep them from checking out those proverbial greener pastures.

Hint: Develop a culture that has workers seeking you out.

2. Get outside.

Getting involved with your local high schools and technical colleges is free publicity for your shop. Work placements and job fairs also are great ways to talk with young people about the viability of manufacturing as a career. Not a job … a career.

Hint: Provincial and national skills competitions attract the best, most motivated students in your area.

3. Get technical.

Investing in advanced manufacturing technology will attract young workers. That’s a fact. Young workers and technology go together like older workers and smoke breaks. If you missed the boat on attracting millennials, don’t make the same mistake with Generation Z.

When you find a young worker who’s special, it’s important to convey to them that they have made the right decision in putting their time and know-how at the service of the manufacturing industry.

Hint: Put yourself in their shoes.

Because Canadian Metalworking is a member of a family of magazines dedicated solely to the metal manufacturing industry, as well as the official media sponsor of the major Canadian machine tool shows, it is our mandate to write about the technologies, shops, and, most importantly, the people who can make a difference in our industry.

In the December issue of Canadian Metalworking, we will introduce a few of the industry’s next generation of manufacturing leaders who will keep work – and jobs – in Canada.

To nominate someone for a NextGen Leadership recognition, visit www.canadianmetalworking.com/mfgleaders to fill out a nomination form.