Industry Roundtable
How Manufacturers & Distributors Are Embracing The New Workforce
Date: October 20th
Time: 11am EST, 4pm BST, 5pm CET
Industry Roundtable
The Great Resignation is a hot topic but it's hiding the real labor problem facing the manufacturing and distribution industries. These industries are feeling a hit with the labor shortage as 2.6 million Baby Boomers working in the manufacturing industry will retire in the next decade. That means 2.4 million jobs may remain unfilled in 2028.
Join this in-depth discussion on October 20th as our industry experts look at both sides of the coin backed by strong data. This discussion will cover:
- Why manufacturers and distributors must invest in technology to create jobs that attract the incoming generation of workers
- How Gen Z feels about the manufacturing and distribution industry
- We’ll examine the looming recession and each of the audiences' thoughts and feelings toward it
Join Industry experts Ian Heller, Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Distribution Strategy Group, Dr. Bharani Nagaratham, Instructional Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Graduate Program at Texas A&M, Josh Laston, Controller at Woodhill Supply Inc, Ray Grady, CEO & President at Conexiom and Moderator Rawan Disouky, Sales Engineer at Conexiom.
Date: October 20th
Time: 11am EST, 4pm BST, 5pm CET
Hiring & the (Future) State of Manufacturing & Distribution
Survey report findings, as stated by the respondents include:
Digital Transformation
47% Will invest in technology to make themselves more attractive to job seekers
18% Plan to cut back to streamline operations
15% Plan to invest in technology that allows them to reduce headcount
Hiring
Challenges
80% Manufacturing & distribution decision makers are worried about hiring
20% Manufacturing & distribution decision makers are NOT worried about hiring
Thoughts on
Gen Z
93% Manufacturing business leaders feel positive about Gen Z entering workforce
62% Distribution business leaders feel positive about Gen Z entering workforce
Technology &
Gen Z
70% Technology has influence with Gen Z's desire to pursue a career
25% Technology has moderate influence with Gen Z's desire to pursue career
5% Technology has no influence with Gen Z's desire to pursue career
Why Isn’t Gen Z Interested in Manufacturing or Distribution Jobs?
Interestingly, when looking at why Gen Z is not interested in working in either industry, many respondents seemed to lack actual knowledge of what working in manufacturing or distribution even entailed. Answers like “I don’t understand the industry or roles,” “I feel like the work is too hard,” and “I think the compensation is bad” shows a potential lack of education around the opportunities and why a recent graduate would want to work in the space.
Featured Speakers
IAN HELLER
Founder and Chief Strategy Officer
Distribution Strategy Group
DR. BHARANI NAGARATHAM
Instructional Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Graduate Program
Texas A&M University
JOSH LASTON
Controller
Woodhill Supply Inc.
RAY GRADY
CEO & President
Conexiom
MODERATOR
RAWAN DISOUKY
Sales Engineer
Conexiom