Manufacturing

The phrase “artificial intelligence” or “AI” often instills unease and nervousness. 

Harassment in the workplace can occur anywhere and manufacturing facilities are no different. Manufacturers can take steps to increase their ability to prevent harassment and to effectively respond to harassment claims.

Years ago, people employed in manufacturing were seen as bit players in an industrial machine, but no longer. Many manufacturing jobs today require high-level STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) skills. 

Despite encouraging U.S. students, veterans, and those in underrepresented communities to pursue careers in manufacturing, not enough prospective employees

Every year, some developments in employment law have greater potential to affect the manufacturing industry than others. Thus far in 2023, possible changes to the salary threshold under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and changes to the independent contractor classification are among the developments manufacturing employers should watch.

The requirement to maintain a safe workplace often clashes with state and local laws that protect the rights of individuals who use marijuana while off-duty, creating unique challenges for manufacturing employers.

Today’s manufacturers must be creative, yet transparent, in attempting to attract entry level and semi-skilled applicants to positions in good work environments with competitive pay and benefits (despite out-of-date misconceptions about the typical manufacturing work setting). Manufacturers need to attract the most talented, diverse, and skilled workforce.

Finding and keeping dependable employees has always been a priority for employers.

Whether seeking to expand an existing operation or grow into a new business, manufacturers large and small must evaluate locations with an eye on whether they would benefit their operations’ bottom line. Industries ranging from aerospace, agribusiness, automotive, and advanced manufacturing to the life sciences have identified site selection as an integral aspect of their short- and long-term investment strategy.