A recent study from Deloitte LLP and The Manufacturing Institute shows that while Americans view manufacturing as the most important industry for a strong national economy, they are not interested in pursuing careers in manufacturing. Only 17 percent named manufacturing as among their top two industry choices to start a career, and only 30 percent of parents said they would encourage their children to pursue jobs in manufacturing.
As it turns out, this disconnect regarding the manufacturing industry’s image is felt within the aftermarket as well. In our own survey, only 34 percent of AMN readers said they would encourage their child to pursue a career in the manufacturing sector.
“This survey sheds light on a massive disconnect we are facing in manufacturing,” said Emily DeRocco, president of The Manufacturing Institute. “People have an outdated image of manufacturing and the career opportunities available. Cutting-edge technology has transformed manufacturing in ways that are hard to imagine if you haven’t visited a factory lately. Jobs now require postsecondary education, skills certification and credentials across a broad range of high-quality, middle class career paths. The reality is that manufacturers offer high-paying jobs and rewarding careers for American working men and women. Our job is to close the gap between perception and reality, which will help fuel the industry’s growth and prosperity.”
The breakdown of results can be seen below.
Would you encourage your child to pursue a career in manufacturing?
No: 65.52%
Yes: 34.48%
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About the Author
Amy Antenora
Editor, aftermarketNews
aantenora@babcox.com
With more than a decade of experience in the communications field, Amy has been Editor of aftermarketNews since 2002. Prior to joining Babcox Publications, Amy worked as a general assignment reporter for the West Akron Sun, as a freelance Arts & Entertainment writer for AmericaOnline and also worked in PR for two state Universities.