Sunday, September 11, 2005
There is no simple answer to the shortage in a skilled manufacturing workers in this country. Despite the popular perception that manufacturing is declining, we face a shortage of skilled manufacturing workers. In large part, the problem exists because young people are not encouraged early to consider manufacturing careers.
Another part of the problem comes in the fragmentation in our education and training system. Training in manufacturing careers often does not match the current needs of of current employers.
The only realistic approach to address these gaps is to create new types of partnerships within your regional economy. Here's an example from California. Manufacturers in Stanislaus County, California have formed a partnership with the city schools and the Department of Employment and Training.
The partnership follows a twofold mission. First, it is designed to make young people aware of the high-technology potential of manufacturing careers. Second, they want to expose high school seniors to work experience. Read more.
posted by Ed Morrison |
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Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
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Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.
Manufacturing partnerships for young people
