It’s no secret that the manufacturing industry has a workforce problem. Despite continued growth in the sector, attracting and retaining the right workers is a concern that keeps many executives up at night. A recent report predicts that the manufacturing industry will need as many as 3.8 million new workers by 2033, but 1.9 million of those jobs could go unfilled. To combat this issue, manufacturers, industry organizations, and government officials at all levels are investing in education and training opportunities across the country. Here are a few examples of how industrial stakeholders are coming together to inspire, educate, and train the next generation of manufacturing workers. 

FANUC America has introduced the FANUC Automation Endowed Scholarship Fund in collaboration with the SME Education Foundation. The program is designed to foster the next generation of skilled professionals in advanced manufacturing and automation. According to the company, over the next four years, a minimum of $1 million will be contributed to establish an enduring endowment that will provide annual scholarships totaling at least $50,000 to students. In a recent quote, Mike Cicco, President & CEO of FANUC America, said, “FANUC has always believed in the power of education and its pivotal role in shaping the future. Early on, we recognized the demand for advanced skills and it led us to establish our Certified Education program. Now, through our new $1 million scholarship initiative, we continue to champion education, and help empower the next generation to learn, innovate, and fuel the growth of manufacturing in North America.” 
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Starting this fall, the College of Charleston will introduce an undergraduate certificate and a Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) concentration in advanced manufacturing. The program is designed to provide students and working adults with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in manufacturing. The university partnered with manufacturing companies in the area to ensure the curricula aligned with the needs of the industry. In a recent quote, Michelle Futrell, executive director of continuing and professional education for the College of Charleston School of Business, said, “As the region’s economy continues to grow, it is important that we stay responsive to the needs of industry. Our new programs are thoughtfully designed to address those needs while allowing adult learners to meet their goals.” 
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The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) has partnered with 37 Oaks to launch a 10-week educational program that is designed to prepare Chicagoland small business owners for manufacturing readiness and wholesale growth. The program offers a combination of 37 Oaks University courses, workshops, 1:1 coaching, hands-on exercises, and co-packer facility tours. In a recent quote, Terrand Smith, Founder and CEO of 37 Oaks, said, "Many small businesses we work with are facing significant opportunities for growth in wholesale, but they lack the knowledge, support, and readiness for this process. This can hinder the growth of small businesses that create jobs, occupy storefronts, and revitalize communities. Understanding manufacturing capabilities is a crucial part of grasping the wholesale landscape. We are excited about this partnership with IMEC as allows us to offer a curriculum that combines the awareness, education, and resources from both fields." 
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ABB Ozark has partnered with Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus to launch a career readiness pilot program. The program, which consists of four modules, will be administered by ATU-Ozark Campus automation technology and air conditioning and refrigeration instructors. Once all modules have been completed, participants will receive an industry certification from the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA). In a recent quote, Ryan Mikles, ATU-Ozark vice chancellor of business innovation and economic development, said, “This collaborative effort underscores our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education tailored to meet the workforce demands of our region. We are excited to offer participants the opportunity to gain industry-relevant certifications and valuable transferable skills while paving the way for potential employment opportunities at ABB.” 
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Western Illinois University, the University of Illinois System and Iowa State University have partnered to create the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute (QCMI). The program will focus on R&D and workforce development in advanced manufacturing and materials. In a recent quote, WIU Interim President Kristi Mindrup said, "The launch of the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute marks a pivotal moment in Western Illinois University's commitment to innovation and workforce development. This collaboration between educational institutions and industry will drive technological advancements and nurture a highly skilled workforce for the Quad Cities region and beyond." 
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