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The world of cutting tool technology, as with many other manufacturing sectors, has been grappling with a talent crunch. Even with companies offering considerable wage increases and substantial benefits packages, a significant number of positions remain vacant. Why, with the allure of competitive pay and benefits packages, aren’t these roles being filled faster? 

BATTLING PERSISTENT STEREOTYPES 

Historical stereotypes around the manufacturing industry are partially to blame. Some outdated perspectives equate manufacturing to grimy, neglected, or even hazardous factory settings. In this hyper-connected era, where tech behemoths like Google, Microsoft, Apple, Meta and Amazon captivate the public’s attention, groundbreaking advancements in fields like cutting tool technology are often overshadowed. To attract the tech-savvy generations, it’s crucial to showcase the contemporary face of manufacturing, emphasizing its digitally driven innovative spaces.  

Today’s manufacturing embraces state-of-the-art technologies more than ever. While some may equate technological progress with job displacement due to automation, it’s essential to understand that emerging technologies also generate new, diverse career paths within the sector. 

RESHAPING THE CUTTING TOOL TECH SPACES 

To draw top-tier talent, industry pioneers need to forecast the evolution of the work and identify the skills that’ll thrive in this transformative environment. As automation gradually takes over monotonous tasks, there’s a pressing need to create workspaces that resonate with current and future industry innovators, making them conducive for human creativity and tech integration. 

HIGHLIGHTING THE UNMACHINABLE 

The rise in automation and digital tools makes room for skills that machines are yet to master. Soft skills—like critical thinking, creativity, and people management—will rise in prominence, offering exciting avenues for individuals who hadn’t previously considered sectors like aviation, automotive, robotics, or cutting tool tech suitable for their skillsets. 

FORGING STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS 

Engaging with recruitment or staffing agencies is a viable strategy to tackle the talent acquisition challenge in today’s manufacturing world. These agencies, armed with vast networks, are adept at identifying and vetting candidates—something that in-house HR teams might struggle with, given their myriad responsibilities. In an era where talent is both a scarcity and a necessity, these agencies adapt to economic fluctuations, ensuring that businesses can onboard the leaders they require in sync with market demands. 

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the typical cost of a misfit hire can amount to as much as 30 percent of the employee’s earnings in their inaugural year.  The average cost of a bad hire is $14,900 per hire per year, but these expenses can skyrocket to around as much as $240,000. These figures primarily account for recruitment, retention, and salary costs.  

With that potential loss looming with any significant hiring decision, turning to seasoned recruiters can be invaluable. They can streamline the hiring process, ensuring that the chosen candidates align with a company’s requirements in cutting tool technology and beyond, allowing HR to direct their focus on a company’s internal dynamics and growth. 

EMBRACING A MODERN WORK CULTURE 

An additional barrier to enticing talent into manufacturing isn’t just the work itself but the associated work culture. The contemporary workforce prioritizes flexible working hours, consistent career growth, and continuous learning opportunities. By integrating these elements into the manufacturing realm, we can make cutting tool technology and similar sectors more appealing to potential talent, ensuring a brighter future for the industry. 

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At Davalyn, we take immense pride in our track record of assisting in metal working and manufacturing talent management, attraction and retention. Our ability to adapt, foresee industry trends, and provide timely solutions has solidified our reputation as industry leaders. 

For a deeper dive into how we can streamline and enhance your metalworking talent strategies, please reach out to us today.