Although aerospace and defense manufacturing are two of the most competitive industrial sectors, they also carry steep rewards. Going into 2018, military spending levels were increased by $80 billion by the U.S. government. Similarly, global aircraft production and component spending are projected to increase by more than $5 billion heading into 2018.
However, the ability to compete for and deliver on these multi-million-dollar contracts means manufacturers have to invest heavily in research and development, supply chain stability, and production capacity. This last critical item could be a challenge for one the largest manufacturers in the world.
Washington-based Boeing recently announced that it will be holding a series of five job fairs around the Puget Sound area as it struggles to fill thousands of non-management manufacturing jobs. Open positions include assemblers, hand finishers, painters, and more. The company is mainly targeting those with experience in the skills trades, such as electricians, welders, construction workers, automotive and aircraft repair technicians, and precision machinists.
The company is also reaching out to those who have recently separated from the military or graduated from college and tech school programs associated with manufacturing. The job fairs will allow applicants to create online profiles, apply for open positions, and speak with company personnel.
Boeing is not alone in these struggles. The National Association of Manufacturers states that over the next decade, two million manufacturing jobs are expected to go unfilled. This shortage is primarily attributed to difficulties in finding skilled workers, as well as applicants willing to partake in the necessary training to acquire these skills.