5 Myths About Working in the Light Industrial & Manufacturing Sectors

When one thinks of working in the industrial and manufacturing industry, the image that comes to mind isn’t very pretty. Most imagine lifting a back-breaking amount of weight, minimal compensation, and dirty working conditions. But, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, many who have not been on a factory floor would find it challenging, rewarding, and fulfilling.

Read ahead to gain insight into the realities of working in the light industrial and manufacturing sectors.

Myth 1 – Unsatisfactory Pay and Benefits

Stereotypes have fostered the idea that factory workers receive low wages and few benefits, but in reality that is far from the truth.

The most recent congressional report from the joint economic committee tells a different tale. Manufacturing has grown 17 percent higher compared to all other industries. Similarly, hourly wages average out to $20.67 an hour according to Trading Economics or $77,506 yearly according to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

The report went on to mention that manufacturing jobs are more likely to include medical and retirement benefits, as well as on-the-job training.

There is more to be gained in manufacturing than the stereotypes have us believe.

Myth 2 – Jobs are Disappearing

Lots of industrial and manufacturing jobs have seen cuts, become automated, or relocated overseas. However, the industry still has a strong foothold in American jobs. The industry still commands 12% of US GDP and employs over 12.3 million strong, intelligent workers.

Despite the noise about these types of jobs disappearing, the opposite is taking place. A Manufacturing Institute survey finds there is a massive shortage in the labor force, with 67% of manufacturers on the lookout for talented workers. Instead of disappearing, the demand has never been greater.

Myth 3 – Best Suited for Unskilled Laborers

Today, manufacturers are more likely to be operating robots and solving complex math equations rather than hammering nails and tightening wrenches. Half of the jobs in demand require an engineering background and require adept command of math and science.

Beyond critical thinking, increased use of technology on the factory floors require above average knowledge of robotics and technology. As Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar put it, “this isn’t your grandpa’s factory floor.”

With most of the required skills being ignored by public schools, it will be vital for manufacturing companies and their leaders to promote high school technology classes and trade-schools as rewarding alternatives to universities.

Myth 4 – Poor Working Conditions

For some reason, people often associate industrial and manufacturing jobs with the Industrial Revolution in high school history class. Good news! Working conditions have improved considerably since the early 1800s.

Heightened concern for employee safety and effects on the environment has brought with its strict government regulations to the industry. The results have made manufacturing just as safe as any other job.

With the rise of technology like robotics, artificial intelligence, drones, augmented reality, etc. the working conditions have improved drastically.

Myth 5 – Manufacturing is Dominated by Males

Although males do currently hold many industrial and manufacturing positions, women participation is growing steadily. Many girls age 17 to 24 still leave industrial and manufacturing out of their top five career preferences, but the ones that are already in the field report overwhelming satisfaction.

A 2017 Women in Manufacturing survey indicated that 82% found their field interesting and challenging and 74% said that multiple job opportunities exist in manufacturing.

Once the stereotypes and myths are busted and our industry promotes industrial and manufacturing jobs for what they are – highly skilled, innovative and technological advanced positions, many men and women could find a bright future in the industry.

Looking for your chance to enter the light industrial and manufacturing sector? Contact Reliable Resources Inc. to get started today.

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