The National Association of Manufacturers’ latest Q2 2019 Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey reported that the top concern for American manufacturers of all sizes is the inability to find skilled workers. 68.8% of survey respondents said they have a hard time finding qualified employees.
As a small business in a rural town, Autometrix has struggled with this same challenge. Here are a few tips for ensuring that your business has the employees it needs to be successful:
1. Work with an agency that offers on the job training
It takes time to train a new employee on how your manufacturing business does things. Agencies like the Alliance for Workforce Development will pay for the time new employees spend getting trained. Everyone benefits.
2. Hire an intern or three
Not only are interns less expensive to hire than full-time employees, interns are typically young, enthusiastic, and eager to learn. If it works out, you’ll have an employee in a year or two who is already trained on your machines and processes.
Autometrix Interns
3. Join forces with other manufacturing businesses in your area
Autometrix has been a member of the Nevada County Tech Connection for the past three years. Being part of a group of technology and manufacturing companies has helped us demonstrate to prospective employees that our rural area has a thriving economy with similar job openings at multiple companies. Sharing resumes or interns with other companies may seem counter intuitive, but it helps everyone find the perfect fit.
Talent Development starts in middle school. Autometrix table at the 2019 STEAM EXPO 
Jonathan Palmer launches Nevada County Tech Connection along with CEOs from other local tech companies
If you are a small business, start connecting locally with workforce and economic development agencies in your community. You will reap the many benefits that your contribution and recognition will bring to your organization. For your automation needs contact one of our specialists.