Recent grads rarely talk about pursuing a career in manufacturing. By failing to do so, they are missing a great opportunity. The competition in many fields can be quite fierce, but the manufacturing sector is actively pursuing potential employees right now.
Manufacturing conjures up pictures of low-skilled labor and dirty working conditions, but as technological advances have improved other industries, the manufacturing sector today is not the same as the factory jobs of yesteryear. Sophisticated equipment and automation processes have replaced many of the low-skilled positions once held by people. To keep facilities in working order, they require skilled hands to operate the computers and robotics that now perform the work.
In-Demand Fields in Manufacturing
Graduates with talent and education in the areas of mathematics, science, IT, and engineering can all find a home in industrial workplaces. Often, equipment is controlled via computer interfaces and through the use of specific coding. In the fabrication industry, mathematics and drafting skills can be vital to the creation of new products and the improvement of current offerings. The ability to analyze data, and make improvements, is valuable and those skills can be acquired through a variety of mathematical, technical, and scientific degree programs.
Those with degrees in business administration may also be able to secure entry-level management positions, as well as those with supervisory experience and other applicable skills.
Additional Knowledge Base
In some cases, a relevant degree may be all you need. At other times, having some skills and knowledge in certain manufacturing processes may also be required. This does not mean you have to obtain an entirely new degree. Instead, consider supplementing your knowledge with an extra course or two designed to help you familiarize yourself with the technology involved.
For example, equipment manufacturers and distributors may have courses or materials you can review. If you know which equipment is in use at particular sites, you can take the time to learn information that is relevant to their current processes. This can help differentiate you from others who may apply.
Community colleges and technical schools may also have courses that can give you an advantage over the competition. As mentioned before, obtaining an entirely new degree is often not necessary. An extra class or two can provide you with an industry-specific foundation upon which you can enter the manufacturing world with greater ease.
On-the-Job Training
Some manufacturing facilities may be prepared to train the right candidate. If you possess a degree or skill set that can be of value, they may be comfortable with introducing you to the ins-and-outs of an industrial workplace. As skill gaps widen, the practice of offering opportunities to train may increase to help attract new applicants.
Often, the ability to learn new systems comes with the job. It can provide a clear path for advancement and future success within the selected business or a larger part of the manufacturing industry. If labor shortages continue to affect the sector, advancement opportunities may become more accessible as businesses compete for the best talent.
If you are interested in starting a career in the manufacturing sector, Advance Staffing Solutions can help. Contact us today to see what jobs may be available to you.
