Friday 5 May 2023Attracting New Talent to The Industry
The UK electronic manufacturing industry has been facing a significant challenge in recruiting and retaining production workers. This issue has been affecting the industry for some time now and has only been exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the biggest difficulties faced by UK manufacturers is the lack of interest among young people in pursuing a career in the manufacturing industry. Many young people today are drawn to the technology and digital sectors, which are perceived to be more glamorous and offer more career opportunities. This has resulted in a shortage of skilled workers in the manufacturing sector, leading to fierce competition for talent.
To attract, motivate and retain younger production workers, the industry needs to focus on promoting the benefits of a career in manufacturing. One way to do this is by highlighting the diverse range of roles available in the sector, including design, engineering, and operations. The industry also needs to invest in training and apprenticeship programs to attract and retain younger talent.
Another challenge faced by the industry is the perception that manufacturing jobs are low-paid and offer limited career opportunities. The industry needs to focus on showcasing the benefits of a career in manufacturing, including opportunities for career progression, job security, and competitive salaries.
Employing older people can also provide significant benefits to the industry. Older workers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, and many are looking for flexible working arrangements to balance their parental duties. To attract and retain older workers, the industry needs to be flexible with their daily work schedules, offering opportunities for part-time or flexible working arrangements.
Innovation is also essential for the industry to attract and retain talent. The industry needs to embrace new technologies, such as automation and robotics, to improve efficiency and reduce the need for manual labour. This can help to make production work more attractive to younger workers who are tech-savvy and looking for jobs that are cutting-edge.
In conclusion, the UK electronic manufacturing industry faces significant challenges in recruiting and retaining production workers. The industry needs to focus on promoting the benefits of a career in manufacturing, investing in training and apprenticeship programs, and embracing new technologies to remain competitive in the modern economy. By doing so, the industry can attract and retain the talent it needs to thrive in the years to come.
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