How Manufacturers & Distributors Are Embracing The New Workforce

Industry Roundtable

Date: October 20th
Time: 11am EST, 4pm BST, 5pm CET

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How Manufactures & Distributors Are Embracing The New Workforce Art

Industry Roundtable Abstract

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:

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

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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 pursure career

25%

Technology has moderate influence with Gen Z's desire to pursure career

5%

Technology has no influence with Gen Z's desire to pursure 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.

58%

Were not interested in the industry

25%

Don't understand the industry or available roles

15%

Believe the work is too hard

12%

Feel the compensation is bad