WASHINGTON – The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), its Manufacturing Institute and SkillsUSA announced Friday a national partnership to prepare more students for career leadership in advanced manufacturing and help meet the industry’s growing labor demand.
“America can’t compete without skilled workers,” said John Engler, President and CEO of the NAM. “Our Dream It. Do It. manufacturing careers and economic development campaign is creating strong regional alliances to raise awareness among young people about manufacturing’s high-paying and rewarding careers. The SkillsUSA network will enable us to reach more students directly in their schools with fun, hands-on programs that teach teamwork and other important workplace skills.”
“We look forward to working more closely with the manufacturing community to create mentoring programs and teach students across the country about career and personal success,” said Tim Lawrence, Executive Director, SkillsUSA.
According to a 2005 Skills Gap report by the NAM and the Manufacturing Institute, skills shortages have an impact on manufacturers’ ability to achieve production levels, increase productivity and meet customer demand.
Moreover, 80 percent of participants said they are experiencing a qualified employee shortage and half said current employees have inadequate basic employability skills.