Levels of morale depends on where you sit, according to Epicor's new Future of Work in Manufacturing report. The survey of 1,400 manufacturing leaders and 1,200 manufacturing worker found that in 2024, 57% of managers rated their morale as high compared to only 45% of workers, highlighting a potential disconnect in understanding and addressing employee engagement.
Bridging this morale gap to ensure alignment between managers and workers is especially critical given the projected 3.8 million manufacturing employee workforce shortage, and the need for leaders to address current challenges and prepare for future demands.
Separately, the report found there is a disconnect in upskilling efforts, with 91% of managers but only 70% of workers recognizing it as a priority, highlighting the need for enhanced communication and implementation.
Key Findings:
- Supply Chain Challenges: Despite 75% of managers recognizing the critical importance of supply chain resilience and sustainability, issues like cost, regulatory hurdles, and technological shortcomings remain obstacles.
- Technological Gap: While 52% of managers considered their workplace very modern in 2024, only 39% of workers agreed, suggesting a mismatch in perceptions of technological advancement.
- Sustainability Priorities: Only about half of the companies prioritize sustainability, with 61% of managers and 45% of workers viewing it as crucial, pointing to the need for stronger, more visible sustainability initiatives.
- Automation’s Impact: A growing awareness of automation's role shows 73% of managers and 53% of workers expect job changes due to automation, with decreasing immediate concerns among workers.
- Turnover Trends: Worker-reported turnover dropped by 6% in 2024, while manager-reported turnover rose by 25%, reflecting varying experiences and viewpoints on workforce stability.
The survey offers strategic recommendations for leaders, emphasizing the importance of:
- Enhancing employee engagement and morale through better communication and recognition programs.
- Accelerating technological modernization to remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
- Implementing robust upskilling programs to prepare workers for the future of manufacturing.
- Prioritizing sustainability to meet growing ESG requirements.
