Training the Next Generation of Machinists
John Tomaz – Wardwell Braiding
It’s no secret that the manufacturing industry has changed dramatically over the last two decades. The sector has lost ground in recruiting and retaining top employees, often losing them to the IT, entertainment or the services sector. Aggravating the problem is the mass retirement of skilled older workers who take with them their “tribal knowledge” from the shop floor. As a result, the pool of potential replacements is smaller and less skilled. Manufacturing also faces more competition (compared to most other sectors) from countries with low-cost labor and benefits. Despite these challenges, technology, particularly in the wire and cable industry, has evolved and revolutionized the industry.