Labor shortages in manufacturing and distribution circles are certainly well documented.  I have some thoughts on why these industries are struggling with resources. I believe that both industries suffer from an identity crisis.

What do you envision when you hear the words “Warehousing and Distribution”?  If you’re like me – before I began working with a couple of clients in the industry – you probably pictured a forklift moving boxes on a loading dock.  At the same time, the word “Manufacturing” likely conjures images of a long assembly line or sparks flying across s shop floor a welder.

Conversely, the word “Technology” may get you thinking about a flashy computer model, robotics, or something not as manual-labor intensive as manufacturing or distribution.  The truth is that today’s manufacturing and distribution environments do have strong technical elements.  Today’s young workforce largely perceives these industries as manually-intensive and unsophisticated.  This could not be further from the truth.

Processing metal requires a level of technical expertise and experience that would surprise most of us.  Programming metal processing equipment for example requires a working knowledge of CAD/CAM software and experience with assist gasses and knowing how to process various materials.  Its not rocket science; but it is complex and technical.

At the same time, today’s warehouses are a whirlwind of automation. From conveyors and carousels to order fulfillment hardware and autonomous robots, equipment, resources and processes must be effectively managed.  Warehouse Management, Execution and Control Systems (WMS, WES, WCS) are driving today’s warehousing and distribution processes.  Understanding and leveraging the technology for specific and unique requirements can product measurable and sustained improvements.

Manufacturing and Warehousing are two industries that have been wrongfully pegged as low or no-tech.  In reality these industries offer fantastic opportunities for today’s tech-savvy young workforce.