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.