The Automation and Manufacturing Industry Labor Shortage Explained with Possible Solutions

The automation and manufacturing industry in the United States is currently facing a significant labor shortage. As technology advances and companies seek to increase productivity and efficiency, the demand for skilled workers is growing. This article explores the reasons behind the labor shortage and presents potential solutions to address this critical challenge.

Did you know? If you need skilled-labor talent, NRTC Automation offer Engineering Contract Services to fill your shortages. Contact us for more information.

Understanding the Labor Shortage:
Several factors have contributed to the labor shortage in the automation and manufacturing industry. Firstly, the rapid advancement of automation technologies has increased the demand for specialized skills and knowledge. This requires workers to continuously update their expertise, causing a skills gap between the existing workforce and the evolving job requirements.

Secondly, a significant portion of the current manufacturing hands-on workforce is nearing retirement age. As experienced workers exit the industry, there is a lack of qualified individuals to replace them, more specifically to the expert level capability. Additionally, negative perceptions about manufacturing jobs among younger generations and a decline in vocational training programs, and an increased desire for a computer-based work environment, have further exacerbated the shortage.

Consequences of the Labor Shortage:
The labor shortage in the automation and manufacturing industry has serious consequences for the United States. Companies face challenges in meeting production demands, which can result in delayed deliveries, increased costs, and potential loss of business. The shortage also hampers innovation and competitiveness, as businesses struggle to adopt new technologies and processes without the proper talent for development and execution. Ultimately, the overall economic growth of the country could be hindered if this issue remains unaddressed.

Solutions to Overcome the Labor Shortage:
To tackle the labor shortage, a multifaceted approach is needed. Here are a few potential solutions:

• Promoting Manufacturing as an Attractive Career Choice: Efforts should be made to reshape the perception of manufacturing jobs and highlight the rewarding and high-tech aspects of the industry. Collaborations between educational institutions, industry associations, and businesses can help create awareness and generate interest among younger generations.

• Enhancing Vocational Training: Investing in vocational training programs can equip individuals with the necessary skills for automation and manufacturing jobs. By partnering with industry experts, educational institutions can offer specialized courses and apprenticeships to bridge the skills gap effectively.

• Encouraging Reskilling and Upskilling: Existing workers should be provided with opportunities for continuous learning and development. Employers can offer training programs to upgrade their employees' skills and adapt to evolving technologies, ensuring a competent and agile workforce.

• Strengthening Industry-Academic Partnerships: Collaboration between academia and the industry is crucial to align educational curricula with industry needs. Establishing apprenticeship programs, internships, and research collaborations can create a seamless transition from education to employment.

• Embracing Automation Technologies: Leveraging automation technologies can help offset the labor shortage by improving productivity and efficiency. Companies should invest in state-of-the-art machinery and robotic systems to streamline operations and reduce dependency on manual labor.

The labor shortage in the automation and manufacturing industry poses a significant challenge to the United States. By promoting manufacturing careers, investing in vocational training, facilitating reskilling/upskilling, fostering industry-academic collaborations, and embracing automation, the nation can overcome this shortage and ensure long-term growth and competitiveness.

NRTC Automation offers solutions to help bridge the gaps you may have on your team. Look to us to offer highly skilled, dependable, and knowledgeable workforces to suit your needs. Check out our Engineering Contract Services webpage for more information or contact us here.

A Journey Through the History of Parts Manufacturing in North America

The history of parts manufacturing in North America is a tale of innovation, industrialization, and technological advancements. From humble beginnings, to becoming a global powerhouse, this sector has played a vital role in shaping the continent's economic landscape.

This article will delve into the significant milestones and key contributors to the evolution of parts manufacturing in North America.  

Did you know? If you need parts, NRTC Automation will manufacture any part based on your custom specifications and volume needs. We offer service parts manufacturing for any industry, servicing automotive, aerospace, and food production to name a few. We will configure a work cell specifically for your company, house production in one of our facilities, and build parts based on the quantity you’ve defined. Contact us for more information.

Origins and Early Development:

Parts manufacturing in North America can be traced back to the late 18th century when the Industrial Revolution was gaining momentum. The United States and Canada initially relied on skilled artisans who crafted components by hand. However, as demand increased, the need for mass production became evident, and the idea of “automation” was born.

Mass Production and the Assembly Line:

One of the pivotal moments in the history of parts manufacturing was the introduction of the assembly line. Henry Ford’s revolutionary assembly line in 1913 revolutionized the manufacturing process, allowing for rapid and cost-effective production. By breaking down the complexity of building an automobile into smaller, standardized, and repetitive steps, Ford's system accelerated productivity and lowered costs, setting a benchmark for the industry.

Automotive Manufacturing:

The automotive industry has been a driving force in the development of parts manufacturing in North America. Detroit, often referred to as the "Motor City," became the epicenter of automobile production in the early 20th century (pssst… Did you know that NRTC Automation operates a full-service location in Fraser, MI, a suburb just outside of the Detroit City limits?). Major automakers such as General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler established extensive manufacturing facilities, leading to the growth of an entire ecosystem of parts suppliers and manufacturers.

World Wars and Industrial Expansion:

Both World War I and World War II played a significant role in the expansion of parts manufacturing. The need for military equipment and vehicles prompted the establishment of new factories and accelerated technological advancements. These wars propelled North America's parts manufacturing sector to new heights, leading to increased capacity, improved processes, and enhanced quality control measures.

Technological Advancements:

The latter half of the 20th century witnessed remarkable technological advancements that transformed parts manufacturing. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, which utilized computer programming to control machining tools, revolutionized precision manufacturing. Robotics and automation further streamlined production processes, enhancing efficiency, and reducing human error.

Outsourcing and Globalization:

In the late 20th century, the North American parts manufacturing landscape experienced a shift as companies began to outsource production to countries with lower labor costs. While this trend led to job losses in some regions, it also paved the way for increased specialization and the emergence of high-tech manufacturing hubs.

Reshoring and the Digital Age:

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of reshoring, with companies bringing manufacturing operations back to North America. Factors such as rising wages in overseas markets, supply chain disruptions, and a focus on quality control have contributed to this shift. Furthermore, the digital age has enabled advancements such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), allowing for rapid prototyping and customization.

The history of parts manufacturing in North America is a testament to human ingenuity and industrial progress. From the early days of skilled artisans to the era of mass production and technological advancements, this sector has continuously evolved to meet changing demands. The automotive industry, world wars, globalization, and the digital age have all played pivotal roles in shaping the landscape of parts manufacturing. As we move into the future, the industry is poised to embrace new technologies and innovations, ensuring North America remains a prominent player in this vital sector.

Look to us, NRTC Automation, to be your North American based parts manufacturing source. We’re best known for our professionalism, customer-oriented approach, and dedication to quality. Have other industrial projects you need assistance with? On top of parts manufacturing, we offer automation, decommissioning and engineering contract services, to name a few.

Let’s work together – contact us here to get started.  

4 Reasons to Outsource Parts Manufacturing

Save precious resources and meet your production goals by outsourcing your parts manufacturing. 

Businesses should always be on the lookout for ways to trim production costs. One way of doing that is to outsource your parts manufacturing. 

Outsourcing work has several advantages that will not only result in cost savings but will also encourage company growth. 

Learn more about the benefits of outsourcing parts manufacturing and NRTC Automation’s Service Parts Manufacturing below. 

Outsource your parts manufacturing 

When should you outsource your parts manufacturing? 

Outsourcing parts manufacturing provides companies with space to grow. You can outsource your parts manufacturing whether you are a small business or an established corporation.  

If you’re wondering if you should outsource manufacturing, take a look at your costs, as well as focus and flexibility. 

COSTS 

Two major costs associated with parts manufacturing are labor and overhead. 

Labor costs can come from both human labor and robot labor. Human labor costs include employee wages, benefits, payroll, and insurance. The costs of robot labor are energy, maintenance, repairs, and tooling and engineering.  

If you are spending more than you’d like on labor, then find financial relief by outsourcing. 

FOCUS AND FLEXIBILITY 

Two other factors you should consider when thinking about outsourcing is your production focus and flexibility. 

Focus and flexibility in manufacturing are important to avoid spending resources on tasks that don’t align with your company mission. By having the flexibility to focus on the important tasks, your business has more room to grow and improve your product. 

Benefits of outsourcing parts manufacturing 

Secure a well-established and trustworthy company to experience the following benefits of outsourcing your parts manufacturing. 

1. COSTS SAVINGS 

As mentioned, the cost savings that accumulate from outsourcing manufacturing is a major benefit for companies of all sizes. 

Outsourcing to a company that uses inexpensive and ethical labor solutions, such as robotic work cells, can provide lower labor costs without humanitarian complications. 

Plus, you’ll save on overhead by reducing the utilities and maintenance needed to support your production line. 

2. IMPROVED EFFICIENCY 

Another benefit of outsourcing is improved efficiency. Your production process becomes more streamlined when you remove tasks that slow the line. 

Additionally, fewer resources are wasted when extra parts are removed from the production process. 

3. SCALABILITY AND DEMAND 

When companies experience a boost in demand, outsourcing allows them to meet customer orders without placing a strain on internal processes. 

If demand is consistent, companies can scale their production accordingly. 

4. ROOM TO INNOVATE 

Finally, outsourcing manufacturing leaves businesses with room to innovate their products.  

Access to resources that would have otherwise been devoted to parts manufacturing affords companies the ability to prototype and test their products to improve quality. 

Become competitive by focusing on what matters. 

Devote your time and money to what is important: developing your company, improving your product, and building relationships with your customers.  

By outsourcing your parts manufacturing, you can meet more of your production goals while spending less on resources to achieve them. 

LET NRTC AUTOMATION MANUFACTURE YOUR SERVICE PARTS. 

NRTC Automation offers Service Parts Manufacturing so you experience all the benefits of outsourcing with a company trusted by top auto manufacturers around the world. 

We are dedicated to providing high-value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all our customers. From decommissioning and tear out to industrial robotic training services to custom flexible work cells, NRTC is the key to integrate your workplace.

Schedule a free consultation with us today to learn more.

Step-by-Step Process of Manufacturing a Car

Have you ever wondered what the process of manufacturing a car looks like? 

From design to launch, it typically takes around two to five years to make a car from start to finish. This long timeline is to ensure the car is in sound condition for public use as well as to develop original designs that will spark interest within a large market. 

Car manufacturers have had the assembly process down pat since Henry Ford’s innovation on the assembly line. However, design and material use have become more intricate and complex as technology develops and demand changes. 

Each car manufacturer has its own process, but NRTC Automation has outlined the standards of making a car, from gathering raw materials to displaying the car on the sales floor. Read more about the car production process below! 

Step-by-Step Process of Manufacturing a Car 

RAW MATERIALS 

Raw materials must be compiled to transform the car from an idea to a reality. Many car manufacturers are looking for more sustainable, as well as lightweight and cost-effective, materials for their cars to keep up with the demand for greener products. 

DESIGN & ENGINEERING 

Automobile design must respond to the public’s needs and desires for a car. Once the design is drafted, it’ll go through many revisions to perfect it. 

The interior and exterior must be fashioned so that it is attractive to potential buyers while also including innovative technologies that make the car newsworthy and competitive to other brands. 

Small models will be made in 2D and 3D forms to test the car’s design. Engineers will test for aerodynamics, safety, hot and cold weather, fuel economy, electrical functionality, cost analysis, and more.  

Once the design and engineering specs have been approved, then the manufacturing process can begin. 

MANUFACTURING 

The sheet metal parts for the bodywork are created and stamped by robots. These parts form side frames, doors, hoods, and roofs, which are later added onto the main frame of the car. 

Once the frame is created and the parts are ready to be assembled, the car will be loaded onto a production line. 

The car will travel along a moving assembly line in a factory as robots and people work on them. Manufacturing plant workers will attach parts to the car and may work alongside robots for certain tasks. Robotic work cells will work alone to weld, solder, screw, and glue parts onto the car. 

Once the parts of the body are manufactured onto the car, it will undergo detailing. This includes cleaning, layering chemical formulas for protection against corrosion and scratches, and painting. 

Finally, the engine, transmission, axles, and exhaust systems are installed into the car and the tires are furnished so the car can stand on its own. 

TESTING & QA 

Now that the car is ready to drive, it will be tested for quality assurance and safety.  

1. The vehicle is checked for any imperfections or inconsistencies in the interior and exterior design.  

1. The car will run through a series of tests similar to those given at a DMV: the engine is started and stopped several times, the steering alignment is adjusted, the headlights are checked for brightness and reach, brakes are tested for safety, and more. 

1. Then, the car will be tested in heavy water pressure to find leaks. 

1. The car’s programming will be tested, and the electrical units will be checked to ensure safety and accessibility. 

1. Finally, crash testing will be executed to observe how the car handles impacts, and to test airbag and seat belt performance. 

If the car requires no further tweaks in design and production for safety, then the car can be presented to the market. 

LAUNCH 

After performing market research, developing a marketing theme, and defining the price of the car, the car will be produced for car dealerships and private dealers to sell to the public. 

Cars are a fascinating and cutting-edge technology. 

They are commonplace now, but cars are an engineering feat that has transformed the way we travel. 

Understanding the process of manufacturing a car from design to launch will enable you to have a new appreciation for automobile design and function. 

GET THE PARTS YOU NEED WITH NRTC AUTOMATION. 

NRTC Automation offers high-quality parts manufacturing for any industry. If you need parts built, engineered, and shipped to your facility, NRTC will provide all services for as long as you need. 

We also provide a customized solution for the decommissioning and tear out of your manufacturing and industrial assets. Our focus is on minimizing disruption and downtime in the work area while emphasizing safety, speed, and efficiency. Our additional robotic services help ensure full adoption of automation solutions and seamless integration into your workplace. 

Contact NRTC Automation today to get the parts you need. 

Reach out to us below to see how NRTC Automation can help with you car manufacturing needs

Histories and Profits of 10 Leading Manufacturing Companies Around the World

Since the turn of the 20th century, manufacturing has taken over the global market. Advancements in technology and increasingly efficient manufacturing processes have given the world cars, planes, and robots, to name a few. 

Manufacturing has made access to products and services easier than ever. Learn about some of the leaders in manufacturing with NRTC Automation’s list of 10 manufacturing companies below. 

10 Leading Manufacturing Companies Since 1892 

SAMSUNG 

Samsung is headquartered in South Korea and made over $222 billion in 2019. As a relatively new company, Samsung has climbed the ladder to consistently make the top lists of manufacturing companies in the world. They are traditionally a home appliance and technology store, but they are beginning to focus on B2B demands for electronics. In 2019, Samsung unveiled the “Samsung Bot,” a next-generation AI robot with household capabilities, and they recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. 

GENERAL MOTORS 

In 1908 in New Jersey, William Durant created General Motors. Over the course of a century, General Motors grew into the powerhouse of classic American cars and, as of this year, the first company to produce self-driving vehicles. General Motors saw a revenue of $147 billion in 2019. 

NISSAN 

Nissan is a Japanese automobile manufacturer founded in 1928 with a Japanese translation of Automobile Manufacturing Co., Ltd., and officially joined the stock market in 1933 with its new name, Nissan. The company was the first Japanese automobile manufacturer to win the Deming Prize for engineering excellence in the 1950s and saw a rise in profits throughout the ‘60s and onward. With over $104 billion in revenue and continued innovations on their automobiles, Nissan makes the list. 

TOYOTA 

Toyota was founded over 75 years ago in Japan by Sakichi Toyoda, an inventor who used his funds from his inventions to create the company. Sakichi’s son, Kiichiro Toyoda, took over the business and established the car operations, producing the first Toyota engine in 1934. They changed the name from Toyoda to Toyota to make it easier to pronounce. Toyota cars are known for their dependability, and their $273 billion in revenue proves their reliability. 

VOLKSWAGEN 

Volkswagen was established as the “people’s car” in 1937 in Germany. The factory was initially under Nazi management until the war when the Allies destroyed the factory in an air raid. It was rebuilt under British control and grew rapidly from there. Volkswagen competes with the other top auto manufacturers, pulling in $278 billion in 2019. 

APPLE 

In 1976, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak founded Apple for computers. In less than 50 years, Apple rose the ranks to one of the leading companies in the world. With the event of the smartphone, Apple became a household name and generated a revenue of $266 billion in 2019. 

FORD 

Ford is a classic American company founded in 1903 by Henry Ford, building international fame with his Model T car. Fun fact: Ford also established the assembly line as we know it today, increasing manufacturing productivity to new heights. Ford’s cars were used extensively during both World Wars. In 2019, Ford Motors Company made $160 billion in revenue. 

MICROSOFT 

Bill Gates and Paul G. Allen created Microsoft in 1975, the name of which is inspired by the terms microcomputer and software. They started out with computers and branched out into video game consoles in 2001 with the release of the Xbox. Microsoft was tangled in many legal struggles in its 45-year history, but it continues to lead manufacturing around the world with a $110 billion revenue. 

HONDA 

Honda is known for its cars, but when Soichiro Honda and Takeo Fujisawa founded the company in 1949 in Japan, the first automobile they introduced was the “Dream” D-type motorcycle. Their first car was sold in the United States in 1969 and developed ASIMO, a humanoid robot to assist those with limited mobility. Honda generated over $115 billion in revenue in 2019. 

GENERAL ELECTRIC 

Last but not least, General Electric is the oldest company on this list. It was incorporated in 1892 and became one of the top manufacturing companies in the world with its diverse product range. Consumer products such as home appliances and electronics only make up a small portion of its profit, however; the company’s sales are mostly supported by the U.S. Department of Defense. GE’s revenue in 2019 was $120 billion, continuing to prevail in manufacturing after nearly 130 years. 

THE FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING 

Manufacturing has come a long way in the past century. With the development of cars, airplanes, robots, and more, the world has changed drastically due to manufacturing. Looking ahead to the future, many of the companies on this list are innovating their products to be more sustainable and efficient. With advancements in technology and an increasing awareness of our production, manufacturing has a challenging, yet bright, future. 

NEED SERVICES FOR YOUR GROWING MANUFACTURING BUSINESS? 

NRTC Automation is the leader in decommissioning and tear out services. With over a decade of experience, we are trusted by the top auto manufacturers around the world. NRTC Automation also offers robotic solutions to minimize disruption and downtime in the work area while emphasizing safety, speed, and efficiency. Visit NRTC Automation today for more information on our services. 

NRTC Automation: Delivering Automation Services Worldwide

At NRTC Automation, we take pride in our specialized solutions for industrial automation and manufacturing equipment. With over a decade of experience, NRTC Automation has become a worldwide partner for companies spanning multiple industries, including the top automobile manufacturers. Our extensive services will provide your company with the solutions you need for your industrial and manufacturing company. To learn more about what we offer, read about our services below. 

Who We Are 

NRTC Automation was founded in Tilbury, Ontario. Our mission is to deliver a comprehensive package of industrial automation and manufacturing solutions for companies across the globe. As shown by our partnerships with manufacturers like BMW and Magna, our company can be trusted with your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment. 

What We Do 

Industrial Tear Out Services 

NRTC Automation offers thorough decommissioning services. If you need to remove outdated equipment or completely clear out your facility, NRTC Automation is the solution. We work with time-sensitive requirements and provide a project manager to give you details on your tear out progress. 

Auto Parts Manufacturing 

With years of experience, we can engineer, build, and ship manufactured parts to you according to your design specifications. We can create work cells that are specific to your company’s production needs, saving you space and manufacturing resources. 

Flexible Robotic Cells 

NRTC Automation’s custom-designed flexible work cells are made uniquely for every one of our customers. Our technicians will work with you to create a work cell that produces according to your specific manufacturing needs. Not only are our robotic work cells affordable, but they also offer maximum compatibility between components and increase production efficiency. 

Industrial Robot Refurbishing 

If you want to extend the life of your robot and return it to like-new conditions, then NRTC Automation’s industrial robot refurbishing service is for you. We offer three levels of reparation for you to choose from according to your needs.  

In the Bronze Tier service, we perform a detailed inspection and a basic testing process, and then you get to decide what level of reparation you want based on our in-depth report. 

Our Silver Tier service offers more comprehensive testing, internal cleaning, and replacing broken parts as necessary in addition to the Bronze Tier service.

Finally, our Gold Tier service includes both Bronze and Silver Tier services, as well as fully stripping and restoring robots to factory conditions, including a brand-new paint job. 

Industrial Tool & Fixture Storage 

If you have underutilized robots and equipment but lack the space to store them, our storage service may be the solution for you. Our warehouses in Alabama and Tilbury, Ontario are available to you to house your equipment in safe and neat conditions. Once you are ready to take your equipment back, we will ship it back to you promptly. 

Robotic Engineering Services 

NRTC Automation offers programming and troubleshooting support in our robotic engineering services. With trained technicians specialized in all major robot manufacturers, our engineering services can reduce downtime on your production floor and restore your robots to normal working conditions. 

Robotic Training Services 

Educate and empower your team with current industrial robotics knowledge. NRTC Automation’s robotic training services will provide a personalized training program based on your company’s needs. We offer basic programming classes to advanced troubleshooting to allow your team to solve technical issues independently, saving you time and money while strengthening your company’s internal systems. 

INTERESTED IN HOW WE CAN TAILOR OUR SERVICES TO YOU? 

NRTC Automation is the solution to your robotic and industrial automation needs. If you would like to learn more about our services, contact us today.