Why Manufacturing is Poised to Attract Gen-Z

For decades, encouraged by Hollywood’s exaggerated visuals and storytelling, the American manufacturing industry has been portrayed and accepted as uncool.

That’s no longer the case.

From my perspective, in 2023, manufacturing is considered the "it" industry, full of thrilling innovation that has eclipsed other business sectors and industries with a refreshing "cool" factor and enviable excitement open to an influx of new ideas and perspectives.

That is why, nearly two decades into apps and other wireless technology and alongside the emergence of VR and AI, manufacturing is poised to attract the next generation of workers and college grads.

With their natural affinity for technology and desire to blend lifestyle and work, Gen-Z—the generation born roughly between the mid-90s and mid-2010s—is well-suited for this newly energized industry. Not only is Gen-Z positioned for manufacturing, but they can also walk into the industry with instincts that are far superior to older groups because they have never known life without the web or the technology that accompanies it.

Furthermore, the industry is ready for them with growing incentives for new industry entrants.

Manufacturing Benefits For The New Generation

The manufacturing industry is brimming with high-paying jobs, opportunities for career growth and a sense of purposeful work that aligns with Gen-Z’s idealistic values.

Nationally, the average manufacturing salary falls around $42,000 annually across all manufacturing occupations—including those that don’t require a college degree. However, the potential to earn a higher salary is substantial, with management, logistics and other more advanced roles garnering six-figure salaries, according to Glassdoor.

And as technology continues to evolve, the need for highly skilled workers will only increase, resulting in more opportunities for Gen-Z to develop specialized skills and move up the ladder.

According to McKinsey, "In the United States, manufacturing accounts for $2.3 trillion in GDP, employs 12 million people, and supports hundreds of local economies." Yet, there are still abundant opportunities for Gen-Z to contribute to this industry as they enter the workforce in large numbers over the next decade.

According to a 2021 Deloitte study, the U.S. is expected to have 2.1 million unfulfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030 due to skill gaps. With technological advancements driving efficiency and productivity, companies are willing to pay top dollar for skilled workers who can help them stay competitive in the global market.

These openings and the ability to move up in the industry present an excellent opportunity for Gen-Z to earn a high income while pursuing a fulfilling career.

The Future Of Manufacturing

Advances in technological innovation have played a critical role in revamping American manufacturing. The Covid-19 pandemic reinforced the necessity of having a “virtual reality” to keep the trains of our daily lives on track. From communications with loved ones to telehealth, national security and the continuity of multiple industries, manufacturing technology has been the hero.

With new positions and the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 supporting the acceleration of a more robust industry, American manufacturing is at the forefront of innovation. The latest technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, are on their way to revolutionizing the sector.

While often thought of in regard to video games, VR allows users to create virtual environments where they can design and test new products and create virtual prototypes. This gives manufacturers more freedom to adjust current product designs, increasing opportunities for product improvement without the extensive use of resources and materials because everything is virtual.

The New "It" Industry

From robotics and automation to additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence, the manufacturing industry is constantly evolving, leading the country in terms of exciting technology and innovation.

While engineers and technicians are well-suited for manufacturing, the industry boasts job openings across an array of roles and disciplines. Manufacturing companies need everything from engineers to HR reps and business strategists and beyond.

The manufacturing industry’s momentum is building. With its tech-forward culture, numerous job openings and foundational importance to our society, the manufacturing industry is set to become a magnet for Gen-Z workforce entrants.

In spite of the supply chain headlines from years past, manufacturing is a relatively recession-proof option for Gen-Z because manufacturing and supplying materials and products is a necessity for every business and community.

Manufacturing is no longer the old-fashioned assembly-line industry of yesteryear. Today it is the career leader in the "cool factor," taking center stage as an electrifying industry full of possibilities.

Written by:  Mark Dohnalek, President and CEO of Pivot International, for Forbes.