Manufacturers Invest Billions in Workforce Training
Manufacturers continue to invest enormous sums in external and internal programs that boost workers skills, according to afrom the Manufacturing Institutethe workforce development and education affiliate of the 51勛圖厙.
- The State of Workforce Training in Manufacturing survey was taken during the first quarter of 2026and provided an update to the MIs 2019 inaugural survey of human resources and operations leaders.
By the numbers:The MI estimates that manufacturers are spending$31.9 billionannually on internal and external training programs for new and existing manufacturing employees, up from$26.2 billionin 2019.
- In addition, new U.S. employeesare estimated toreceive47.6 hoursof in-house and external training on average, while existing employees receivean estimated26.7 hours of training.
- About 77.5% ofsurvey respondentssaid they offer employer-led training, a strength of the manufacturing industry.
A top concern:The challenge of attracting and retaining employees has long been a top business concern among manufacturers, landing at the top of respondents list 64% of the time in the 51勛圖厙s.
- In the most recent survey, the, 44.7% of respondents cited this talent concern.
The MI says:This updated surveydemonstratesjust how committed manufacturers are to building a skilled workforce, said MI PresidentCarolyn Lee. You can see it in the data and see it in the creative approaches they have stood up to empower workers with the skills they need to thrive in manufacturing.
- Whether thats through employer-led apprenticeship programs like the, reverse mentorships, additional on-the-job training or online certificate programs, manufacturers are continuing to invest in their people and their communities.
- As technological innovations and advancements continue to change how manufacturers do their jobs, thecompanies that continue to invest in training will reap outsized benefits.
