Input Stories

At the NAM, we’re examining some of the top trends that are shaping manufacturing this year, and offering the resources you need to take action.

Today, we’re taking a look at the industry’s efforts to implement artificial intelligence and prepare a workforce that is ready to build the future.

Expanding the talent pool: New tech-driven manufacturing processes will require a workforce that understands the technologies involved and can optimize production. An expanded talent pool that includes women, military community members and individuals with varying abilities can help manufacturers meet the workforce needs of the future.

• Manufacturers must also recognize that employees are increasingly seeking better benefits, flexible working arrangements and a better work-life balance.

Building an AI culture: Leaders can make it clear to employees that AI is a tool to help make people more valuable and productive and support their careers—and not a means to replace them.

• AI can help centralize the critical knowledge held by experienced workers across manufacturing companies and transfer it to the next generation of workers.

Expert insight: According to John Karren and Mike Lambert—principals of Workforce Transformation and Industrial Products and Services, respectively, at PwC US—manufacturing will soon have AI embedded into everything people do.

• “AI models are scalable and flexible, and they are accessible even to workers without a technology background,” said Karren and Lambert. “AI can make work more productive, meaningful and engaging while providing predictive analytics to support the workforce. This increase in engagement, purpose and career mobility can help manufacturers retain experienced workers and attract new talent.”

Resources for you: Want to dive deeper? Check out some additional resources from the NAM.

• Tap into the Manufacturing Institute to access resources as well as a talent pool of highly skilled veterans and emerging workers. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the NAM builds, diversifies and strengthens the modern manufacturing workforce.
• Learn about digital maturity in manufacturing through a survey conducted by the Manufacturing Leadership Council, the digital transformation division of the NAM.
• Explore the Manufacturers Retirement 401(k) & Savings Plan, a high-quality, multiple-employer plan that helps employees feel secure while reducing the amount of time, personnel and money spent managing a retirement plan.