As manufacturers across Tennessee and beyond face an increasingly competitive labor market, attracting skilled workers is one of the most pressing challenges of 2025. With over 3.8 million manufacturing jobs projected to be needed by 2033, companies that want to stay ahead must adapt their hiring strategies now.

Understand What Today’s Workforce Wants

Modern manufacturing jobs offer more than just a paycheck. Today’s skilled labor pool is looking for:

• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Flexible schedules and better work-life balance
• Hands-on, meaningful work
• Supportive and inclusive workplace cultures

Manufacturers that align with these expectations will have the upper hand in recruiting and retaining top talent.

Update Your Recruitment Strategies

Gone are the days when job boards and generic listings were enough. In 2025, attracting skilled labor means:

• Using clear, skill-based job postings that emphasize what workers will learn and build, not just what’s required
• Leveraging social media and platforms where younger, tech-savvy candidates spend time
• Focusing on career paths in job descriptions, not just entry-level tasks
• Highlighting flexibility such as shift-swapping, 4-day workweeks, or compressed schedules

Build Your Own Talent Through Training

Rather than compete for a shrinking pool of pre-qualified workers, consider growing talent from within your community. Options include:

• Launching in-house skills training or job shadowing programs
• Creating or partnering on registered apprenticeship programs
• Working with local schools, community colleges, and workforce boards

These initiatives not only create a reliable talent pipeline but also strengthen your company’s reputation as an employer of choice.

Broaden Your Reach

To fill critical roles, manufacturers should consider overlooked populations that are ready to work and eager to grow. This includes:

• Veterans transitioning into civilian careers
• Returning citizens with relevant training and high retention rates
• Early-career workers from technical high schools or alternative education pathways

These groups bring valuable skills, loyalty, and fresh perspectives to your workforce.

Improve Your Workplace Culture

Retention starts with engagement. To become a magnet for talent:

• Foster a culture of respect, recognition, and development
• Offer onboarding support and mentorship
• Provide tools and technology that help employees succeed

When workers feel valued and supported, they are more likely to stay and grow with your business.

Get the Full Guide

For a deeper look at recruitment trends, training programs, job posting strategies, and workplace best practices, download our comprehensive guide: How Manufacturers Can Expand Their Talent Pipeline.

TMEP is here to help you attract and retain skilled workers in a competitive market. Contact us at tmep@tennessee.edu to learn more about workforce solutions tailored to your manufacturing business.