As technology advances, so should our workforce to ensure that manufacturing is a diverse, thriving, and valued ecosystem

One of the biggest obstacles manufacturers face today is the struggle to fill critical jobs within their organization. According to Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute, there is a potential deficit of up to as many as 2.4 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2028. At first glance, this statistic is alarming, but there are steps manufacturers can take to combat the growing skills gap and begin filling their talent pipeline.

Recently, SME has extended its partnership with Women in Manufacturing (WiM) to offer reciprocal student memberships as well as conduct multiple programs and career fairs to best serve the manufacturing community. “We’re excited to partner on this level with Women in Manufacturing, which shares many goals and aspirations for women and underrepresented groups in manufacturing who are seeking rewarding, sustaining careers,” said Sheronda Carr, Sr. Director, Membership, SME. “Like our broader, longer-term partnership, we believe the virtual career fairs will allow both employers and job seekers to connect with like-minded people who align with their values.”

SME and WiM’s partnership encompasses the broad vision of cooperation in serving the manufacturing industry and labor force. The importance of this collaboration is further endorsed by Allison Grealis, president and founder of WiM, “WiM values its industry partners and believes that together, we can truly impact more people and organizations. As a now global trade association working to support, promote, and inspire women in manufacturing, WiM aligns well with SME and complement each other’s work in many ways, making our partnership a natural fit for which WiM is truly grateful!”

As manufacturing technology advances, so should its workforce—both in quantity and quality of talent. Consequently, SME found another phenomenal industry partner, Women in 3D Printing (Wi3DP) to join forces and continue to build a diverse manufacturing workforce. "SME has been enabling the development and growth of the Additive Manufacturing industry since the late 1980's and we continue to be inspired by its people and technology," said Robert Willig, CEO, SME. "Collaboration is crucial, and we are excited to embark on this strategic partnership with Women in 3D Printing, an organization that shares our passion for promoting and advancing Additive Manufacturing (AM) and creating a more inclusive industry for everyone." SME's 90+ years of manufacturing experience, vast resources, and scope with Wi3DP's passionate network and robust programs will accelerate a shared mission to develop technology, connection, inclusivity, and opportunities to introduce the next generation to the benefits of a career in AM. This is an important step in closing the skills gap.

The large increase of women entering careers in STEM have and will continue to contribute to manufacturing. Continuous improvement is important when discussing the technical aspects of manufacturing. There is no difference when speaking about the people of manufacturing. It's important to strive for continuous improvement as we work to ensure that manufacturing is a diverse, thriving, and valued ecosystem.