A new initiative to mend the skills gap, increase the prevalence of job training, and introduce the use of new manufacturing technologies began at the end of 2015. The December bonus arrived in the form of a $6.8 million grant received by The Ohio State University Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME). The funding will help create a new model for commercialization support and manufacturing companies in Ohio. The manufacturing initiative will concentrate on the central and northern areas of the state.

Re-assessing Old Problems

Over the years, we’ve observed a number of stop-gap solutions in the form of government-legislated programs and on-the-job and vocational training, all with the initiative to improve the manufacturing industry at-large. The new endeavor headed by CDME hopes to employ a broader scope. This includes the foundation of a three-prong approach designed to enhance economic vitality. CDME looks to accomplish this through addressing manufacturing opportunities and digging into the many challenges facing the industry. CDME’s approach will also include collaboration between multiple industries. The final element will develop the workforce of current employees as well create an able and flexible workforce for tomorrow.

Dedicated Resources

Looking at things from a been-there, done-that mentality, it’s reasonable to think there will be some element of skepticism in the new endeavor. One reason it could succeed where other initiatives have not is the varied approach. For example, previous job training initiatives did not always train workers for the newest technologies. Training occurred but many times the manufacturing methods were not regularly used by the industry. By accelerating the movement of new technologies from the lab to the workplace and training manufacturing workers on these new methods, there is a greater chance for long-term success. This level of exposure to new technologies has the ability to allow the local workforce to possess the skills and confidence needed to comfortably work with new technologies. This will be especially important as the number of manufacturers using new technology come to Ohio looking for a workforce that’s not intimidated by a new way of doing things.

Enabling Teamwork

One of the most important differentiators between the newly inked CDME plan and prior attempts may be the focus on teamwork. Finally people in the industry and beyond are recognizing how many touchpoints manufacturing has across a number of industries. While the production of finished goods may differ, this new endeavor finally puts the focus on collaboration and listening to provide the best end product. This is something Walsh Manufacturing continues to practice. For more than five decades we’ve experienced first-hand how incredible products and ideas can originate when you bring people and ideas together. Interestingly, it’s often the minds thought to be least alike that can often create new solutions by looking at things from an entirely different vantage point.

About Walsh Manufacturing

Walsh Manufacturing is a Cleveland, Ohio-based manufacturing company with five decades of experience in machine design and metal fabrication. Over this time, we’ve built a reputation as a diversified manufacturer of machined components, subassemblies, alloy material, fabricated steel and machinery. If you’re looking for a cost-competitive, innovative, and reliable supplier with expertise in Parts Washing Systems, Automation Equipment, Metal Fabrication and Machinery Rebuilding, look no farther than Walsh Manufacturing.