Current Volume 9
Abstract
The resurgence of U.S. manufacturing hinges on more than technological innovation or capital investment, but on cultivating a skilled, adaptable, and future-ready workforce. This paper examines the strategic imperative of workforce development in the context of a shifting industrial environment where automation, demographic changes, and global competition are reshaping talent needs. Drawing on policy frameworks, real-world case studies, and collaborative models, the analysis explores how targeted recruitment strategies, public–private partnerships, and HR technologies are being employed to close critical skills gaps. Particular attention is given to the effectiveness and scalability of these interventions, revealing both promising outcomes and persistent structural challenges, including inconsistencies in credentialing, state-level policy fragmentation, and inequitable access to high-quality training. Through the integration of workforce analytics, competency mapping, and tech-enabled learning systems, this paper underscores the need for a nationally coordinated, HR-driven workforce strategy. It concludes with policy recommendations emphasizing expanded investment, cross-sectoral collaboration, and systemic innovation. Ultimately, the article affirms that workforce development is beyond peripheral concern but a central determinant of U.S. manufacturing's long-term viability and global competitiveness.
Keywords
Workforce Development, U.S. Manufacturing, Skills Gap, Public–Private Partnerships, HR Technology, Apprenticeship Programs, Talent Pipelines, Labor Policy, Strategic Workforce Planning, Credentialing Standards, Industrial Competitiveness
Citations
IRE Journals:
Abimbola Bukola Olawepo
"Bridging the Skills Gap: HR Strategies for Building a Future-Ready Manufacturing Workforce" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 11 2025 Page 1528-1538
IEEE:
Abimbola Bukola Olawepo
"Bridging the Skills Gap: HR Strategies for Building a Future-Ready Manufacturing Workforce" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(11)
About IRE Journals
IRE Journals is an open access online journals established with an aim to publish high quality of research work in various diciplines. We have more than 6 years in publications. Over 2500+ papers already published.
Important Links
For Authors
Volume 9:
Issue 1Volume 8:
Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3, Issue 4, Issue 5, Issue 6, Issue 7, Issue 8, Issue 9, Issue 10, Issue 11, Issue 12Volume 7:
Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3, Issue 4, Issue 5, Issue 6, Issue 7, Issue 8, Issue 9, Issue 10, Issue 11, Issue 12Volume 6:
Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3, Issue 4, Issue 5, Issue 6, Issue 7, Issue 8, Issue 9, Issue 10, Issue 11, Issue 12Volume 5:
Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3, Issue 4, Issue 5, Issue 6, Issue 7, Issue 8, Issue 9, Issue 10, Issue 11, Issue 12Volume 4:
Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3, Issue 4, Issue 5, Issue 6, Issue 7, Issue 8, Issue 9, Issue 10, Issue 11, Issue 12Volume 3:
Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3, Issue 4, Issue 5, Issue 6, Issue 7, Issue 8, Issue 9, Issue 10, Issue 11, Issue 12