PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP

Finding & Attracting the Future Manufacturing Workforce

An Interactive Workshop on Inspiring the Next-Generation of Manufacturing Talent

The manufacturing industry is experiencing unprecedented levels of growth and funding which, along with evolving technologies, is pointing to the Fourth Industrial Revolution – but attracting and engaging the next-generation of manufacturing talent is proving challenging.

Gen-Z, Gen-X and millennial workers’ motivations for taking and staying in a job differ from those of older cohorts, leading to the question: how can manufacturers attract and retain this talent?

Join this interactive workshop to explore four key challenges:

How does Gen-Z differ to
other worker cohorts?

What are the main
motivators for Gen-Z,
Gen X, or millennials
when applying for a role?

Which benefits do the
next-generation value
the most?

Demonstrating clear
career pathways to
attract and retain top
next-gen talent

Sessions Include:

1

Case study: Strategic Long-Term Hiring Through Early Career Programs in Manufacturing

• How can early career programs enhance diversity through tapping into a variety of backgrounds and experiences?
• Cost-effective ways to build a robust talent pipeline through internships, co-ops, and scholarships
• Deep-dive into Nordson’s early career program which enables them to fill positions in advance, improving workforce
planning and hiring efficiency

2

Case study: Building a Centralized Early Careers Program to Foster a Sense of Belonging for New Hires

• Create a unified onboarding experience for all interns, grads and new hires at your manufacturing firm
• Navigating how to grow brand recognition by developing compelling stories around sustainability and purpose to
engage early-career talent
• Uncover the story behind Axalta’s cohesive early careers program which has led to enhanced attraction and
engagement of next-gen hires

3

Roundtable: Attracting & Retaining Gen Z in Manufacturing by Shifting Perceptions & Building Career Pathways

During this roundtable we'll explore innovative strategies to attract and retain Gen-Z in the manufacturing sector. Participants will discuss how to reshape the industry’s image to appeal to younger workers and spotlight the opportunities for career growth and development.

YOUR WORKSHOP CONTRIBUTORS: