Despite steady growth, manufacturing faces a major hurdle — not enough skilled workers to fill the jobs being created. Between now and 2033, the industry is expected to add 3.8 million new positions, yet 1.9 million could go unfilled due to a widening skills gap.

AI is transforming production lines, while a wave of retirements is draining institutional knowledge. At the same time, changing workforce expectations are making it harder to attract top talent. The result? Manufacturers are struggling to build a workforce that can keep up with demand.

How do we fix it? Let’s explore four strategies to secure the talent you need — plus one pioneering approach that’s redefining how manufacturing executive recruiters tackle staffing challenges.

Seek Transferable Skills from Related Industries

If your talent search is confined to the manufacturing sector, you may be overlooking a goldmine of skilled professionals from adjacent fields. Engineers, logistics experts and military personnel, for example, bring a blend of technical expertise, problem-solving abilities and adaptability that transition well into manufacturing roles.

Manufacturers who cast a wider net will expand their hiring pipeline and connect with highly capable candidates who are ready to apply their expertise in a new environment.

Invest in Upskilling & Reskilling to Keep Pace with Job Demands

Technology evolves rapidly, often outpacing traditional job descriptions. Manufacturers that invest in upskilling and reskilling programs for both new hires and existing employees will create a workforce that is:

  • More agile and adaptable to technological advancements
  • Future-proofed against shifting industry demands
  • More engaged and loyal, reducing turnover rates

With 65% of industry leaders struggling to find and retain talent, skills development isn’t just about hiring — it’s about keeping the right people long-term.

Partner with Educational Institutions to Tap into Emerging Talent

Local universities, trade schools and community colleges serve as invaluable partners in closing the talent gap. Facilitating internships and hosting job fairs can create the potential for a steady pipeline of skilled graduates ready to contribute from day one.

Prioritize Cultural Fit Over Perfect Resumes

Hard skills are teachable, but an eager mindset and cultural alignment are game changers. Seek out team players who aren’t afraid of change, value collaboration and are constantly hungry to learn. That way, when market shifts or new technologies surface, your workforce stays nimble and ready to pivot.

Leverage Duffy Recruitment Research™: A Smarter Manufacturing Executive Search Firm Approach

When it comes to finding the right talent, these strategies are only half the battle. You also need the right manufacturing executive recruiters on your side, backed by a search process that cuts through the noise and zeroes in on candidates who meet your specific needs.

That’s where Duffy Recruitment Research™, a cornerstone of the informed search model, steps in. Here’s how it helps close the manufacturing skills gap:

  • Deep Industry Insights: We tap into competitor data, market intelligence and leading process improvement experts to identify emerging skill requirements and enrich our lean manufacturing expertise.
  • Targeting Passive Talent: Most high-caliber professionals aren’t scanning job boards. We proactively uncover qualified individuals who would otherwise go unnoticed through traditional search methods.
  • Adaptable and Scalable Approach: We bill for the hours worked only, allowing clients to scale up or down depending on how urgent or complex the role is — perfect for filling high-demand, hard-to-find positions in real time.
  • Thorough Candidate Vetting: We look beyond resumes to assess problem-solving abilities, cultural fit and adaptability. This ensures new hires can integrate quickly and sustain long-term growth.
  • Future-Focused Talent Pipelines: We gather vital insights through a multi-step approach to build a robust database of passive, highly qualified candidates that will support your current and future vacancies.

Ready to Close the Gap?

Closing the skills gap in manufacturing demands a multi-pronged approach — and a manufacturing executive search firm that knows where to look.

Contact our team today to learn how informed search can redefine how you hire.