Navigating the workforce: MRC’s role in manufacturing
I had the pleasure of interviewing Rich Hobbs, the president and CEO of the Manufacturers Resource Center here in the Lehigh Valley. This column explores the significant shifts in hiring practices, the rise of automation, and the critical role of the center in supporting manufacturers through training, coaching and development.
The pandemic’s impact on hiring practices
Hobbs said the pandemic dramatically altered hiring practices across the manufacturing industries. “During the height of COVID-19, companies were in a state of flux, hiring rapidly without a clear understanding of the future. This led to a surge in high and often unsustainable salaries as businesses scrambled to fill positions. Many of these hires were made without in-person interviews, compressing the traditional vetting process into a matter of days or weeks.”
“Fast-forward to the present, and the landscape has shifted once again,” Hobbs said. Companies are now taking a more measured approach to hiring, with vetting processes extending over several months. Salaries have stabilized, reflecting a more sustainable approach to workforce management. This shift underscores the importance of careful selection and long-term planning in building a resilient workforce.
The role of automation
Automation has become a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, with many companies increasing their reliance on automated processes. This trend is driven by the need to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, particularly in the face of ongoing labor shortages. Despite these advancements, the demographic challenge remains, with numerous positions still unfilled across the country and in the Lehigh Valley.
From attraction to retention
One of the most significant shifts is the move from attracting new talent to retaining existing employees. Hobbs has witnessed employers increasingly investing in their workforce, recognizing that retention is key to long-term success. This is where the Manufacturers Resource Center plays a crucial role, offering a range of training and development programs designed to enhance employee skills and foster a sense of investment in their careers.
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MRC’s comprehensive training programs
The Manufacturers Resource Center provides extensive on-site training, focusing on leadership, manufacturing boot camps, and supervisory skills. The center’s Manufacturing Leadership Institute is particularly noteworthy, offering a multi-month program that covers culture, supply chain management and finance for emerging executives. The program has graduated over 400 individuals, preparing them for leadership roles within their organizations.
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A network of support
The Manufacturers Resource Center is part of a network of seven industrial resource centers spread across Pennsylvania, also operating under the nationwide federal Manufacturing Extension Partnership. As a nonprofit organization, MRC receives state and federal government funding, allowing it to offer a range of resources and services to manufacturers at little to no cost. The organization’s technical training programs, including lean manufacturing and Six Sigma, are designed to reduce waste and improve process efficiency. The center also does coaching as well as direct consulting engagements for clients.
Building long-term relationships
The Manufacturers Resource Center approach to client engagement is built on long-term relationships. The organization reaches out to manufacturers with various tools, updates and educational opportunities, ensuring the center remains a trusted resource. The organization’s business development professionals are in the field, calling on clients and offering advice on improving efficiency and productivity. This hands-on approach often leads to consulting engagements, where MRC helps companies implement best practices and innovative solutions.
Partnerships and community engagement
The Manufacturers Resource Center collaborates with various organizations, including the Small Business Development Center, the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation. These partnerships extend MRC’s reach and enhance their ability to support manufacturers. They also host public forums, bringing together local CEOs, CFOs, and other leaders to discuss common challenges and share solutions.
Celebrating manufacturing
The Manufacturers Resource Center’s commitment to the manufacturing community is evident in its celebration of Manufacturing Day, held annually on the first Friday of October. This event brings together industry leaders, politicians and community members to recognize the contributions of manufacturers. It also serves as a platform for networking and sharing best practices.
Inspiring the next generation
The center’s “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing?” program is a testament to the organization’s dedication to inspiring the next generation. This initiative takes middle school students into manufacturing facilities, giving them a firsthand look at the industry and sparking interest in manufacturing careers.
We are grateful to have Rich Hobbs and his team at MRC support local manufacturers with comprehensive training programs, an extensive network of support and problem solving and commitment to community engagement. By focusing on retention, investing in employee development and fostering long-term relationships, the Manufacturers Resource Center is helping to build a resilient and skilled workforce for the future.
