As today's manufacturing industry embraces advanced technology, companies are continually challenged to attract, develop and retain a high-performing workforce capable of thriving in an evolving environment. To help ensure the manufacturing industry remains competitive, SME has announced a new program, "Ready to Hire," in partnership with Cengage Group that builds sustainable talent pipelines by providing manufacturers with access to qualified pre-screened, pre-trained, pre-market talent.
"There is a significant need for more employees, especially for entry-level roles, trained in technical and soft skills, who are motivated and committed candidates," said an SME spokesperson. "In fact, U.S. manufacturing could need as many as 3.8 million new employees by 2033, with a potential 1.9 million of these jobs remaining unfilled, according to a Deloitte study."
To accelerate manufacturing hiring, Ready to Hire streamlines the process by implementing a scalable, train-to-hire program that yields a quality candidate, often untapped talent. Ready to Hire handles sourcing, screening, training and onboarding talent so employers can focus on building their team and boosting retention. By moving the training up front, Ready to Hire delivers a risk-free talent pipeline that can flex up or down as needed by each organization.
"It is our responsibility as one of the industry's leading workforce organizations for over 90 years to create and invest in innovative programs like Ready to Hire, which will strengthen the manufacturing supply chain with technically skilled, productive individuals," said Jeannine Kunz, Chief Workforce Development Officer at SME. "Through our collaboration with Cengage, we are able to address not only the skills gap, but also the gap in applicants, ultimately positioning manufacturers and individuals to be better prepared for the future."
Ready to Hire thoroughly screens all candidates, saving manufacturers time and effort by presenting only the most qualified and suitable individuals for open roles. Candidates must meet all program requirements, including soft skills development and specific technical instruction, before they are referred to employers. New hires will then continue with guided hands-on training delivered on-site and evaluated by experienced technicians whose expertise is essential to standing up this new workforce. In addition to delivering strong individual candidates, this approach ensures multilocation providers receive the same qualified, consistent and predictable candidates for every facility.
The Ready to Hire model has had proven success in other industries where employer partners hire 91% of referred candidates, and 94% are still employed beyond the program's guaranteed retention period. To benefit the manufacturing industry, Ready to Hire integrates best practices gleaned from addressing talent shortages in healthcare, skilled trades, and IT/cybersecurity with SME's expansive industry experience, network and training.
To provide opportunities to all qualified candidates who are eager to learn, the program is free to students. Training programs are focused on in-demand roles such as CNC machinist, welding technician, robotics technician, press operator, additive manufacturing and electrical vehicle technician. Individuals can also train to receive SME's Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) Certification.
For more information contact:
Chad Schron, Senior Director
Tooling U-SME
3615 Superior Ave.
East Building 44, 6th Floor
Cleveland, OH 44114
866-706-8665
chad.schron@toolingu.com
www.toolingu.com
Ready to Hire
www.readytohire.com
Cengage Group
10650 Toebben Drive
Independence, KY 41051
800-354-9706
support.cengage.com
www.cengagegroup.com