Fall 2016 issue of Horizons

MANUFACTURING & DISTRIBUTION

Focus on Talent Many organizations have taken steps to grow the next generation of talent through internships, partnerships with local colleges and universities and the support of trade and technical schools. The industry must enhance the perception of the “manufacturing job” or career path from that of many years ago. Today’s manufacturing jobs often require substantial technical knowledge, advanced training and specialized skills that command excellent wages and provide many with successful careers. Despite what many perceive to be a declining segment of our economy, manufacturing and distribution is very much a driving force providing quality jobs and amazing new or improved products that are delivered and made available to consumers in very creative and efficient methods.

Manufacturing and distribution, like many other industries, continues to be challenged with many of the same issues including: ∙ Difficult domestic policy, regulation and taxation (including state and local compliance) ∙ Complicated and costly health insurance coverage and compliance

∙ Continued lack of quality workforce

∙ Weakening export sales due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar

∙ Challenges in growth and expansion

Despite these challenges, the economic outlook remains optimistic as new ideas and concepts are developed through companies trying to inject innovative thinking throughout their culture. Innovation as a Driver Successful companies are encouraging their workforces to be more innovative than competitors, listen more closely to customers and gather better information (via big data, internet of things and analytics) to make better decisions and investments. Companies must work harder to cultivate a culture of innovation at all levels of their business. This allows for the growth and development of talent to keep pace with the complexity of production processes and new technologies available to them and their customers.

page 18 | horizons Fall 2016