U.S. manufacturing reached a record $2.91 trillion in value added in 2024, but employers face a growing challenge in sustaining that momentum as experienced workers retire.

Manufacturers are projected to need 3.8 million additional workers by 2033, according to the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte, with roughly 2.8 million openings expected to result from retirements. As many as 1.9 million positions could go unfilled without stronger recruitment, retention and training strategies.

The challenge is not just filling open positions. It is preparing for the loss of experience, technical knowledge and future supervisors before retirements accelerate.

“Manufacturers cannot wait until experienced employees walk out the door to start thinking about what they are taking with them,” said Dave O’Neil, director of communications for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “Retention, knowledge transfer and internal career development need to be treated as business priorities, not just HR programs.” 7/28/2026