May 2019
“No matter how innovative technology becomes,
manufacturers still struggle to locate the skilled
talent they need to operate the technology and to do
the jobs that technology can’t do,” said Chuck
Hadden, MMA president & CEO. “We are at the
perfect point to develop new training programs and
talent pipelines. We know what technology is out
there, we know what jobs are still out there — all
we need now is the right people.”
Training is best done through a combination
of things. Local sources may be tied to schools and
programs in your area. By looking locally, the
manufacturer is provided with a source of incoming
talent with a base knowledge of emerging technology.
As all new talent should be well-versed in the
technology they’ll be using, employers must also
work to upskill their existing workforce. This can be
done through ongoing education and onsite training
but should be prioritized as part of your overall
technology strategy.
“Great talent always matters more than great
technology, in every sector,” said Maddox. “Remember,
technology does not control the talent — talent
controls the technology.”
While training talent to use new technology
is important, if the overall efforts to implement
new technology aren’t properly monitored and
measured, you could be throwing time and money
down the drain. (Check out the list of tech-relevant
skills important to the future workforce at left.)
“Your technology partner needs to have a very
robust system for reporting metrics to you on a
regular basis,” said Maddox. “These metrics need to
be business-based, not technolo-
gy-based. What efficiencies
have been gained that are direct-
ly tied to the use of a technology
solution? What is the impact of
this on cost and revenue?”
MiMfg Magazine
A technology provider (like the team at ASK, pictured
here) can help your facility develop a strategic
roadmap to successful tech and talent integration.
Maddox continued, reminding manufacturers that
“without the ability to clearly measure results, technology
can become a burden that will weigh the business
down. If done correctly, however, it can become a
catalyst for driving the business to new levels.”
Get More
Looking to learn more about integrating talent
and technology? Log-in to mimfg.org and search
for recently added technology content or locate
technology providers in your area through the
MMA Member Directory.
6
Brett Gerrish is MMA’s communications coordinator.
He may be reached at [email protected] or
517-487-8533.
CONNECTION TO
Need More?
Check out mimfg.org for
additional articles on cyber
security , Industry 4.0 ,
Internet of Things (IoT)
and talent solutions.
Search by keyword or
contact MMA’s Brett Gerrish,
at 517-487-8533.
DETAILS
You need permits, regulatory compliance, and health/safety
training to keep manufacturing running smoothly.
Let us help you connect the details.
13