Over 400,000 Factory Jobs in the U.S. Remain Unfilled
Work News | New Stardom
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More than 400,000 manufacturing roles remain vacant across the United States, according to official labour market figures, as reported by The New York Times. The shortfall persists as companies report difficulty recruiting for skilled trade and technician roles.
Speaking at the Business Roundtable CEO Workforce Forum in Washington, Carrier Global chief executive David Gitlin said that for every 20 manufacturing roles advertised, only one qualified applicant typically applies. Other employers cited growing delays in recruitment as a direct constraint on planned production.
The shortage comes as the U.S. government pushes to reshore production and scale domestic output. But employers say the available workforce is shrinking, as technical college enrolment declines and fewer migrant workers enter the system.
In April, the White House launched a new initiative aimed at creating one million apprenticeships. But the programme is facing scrutiny, with funding for existing workforce schemes cut under the current budget.
Some employers have launched targeted training efforts and early recruitment programmes, but industry leaders warn the shortage will deepen without broader structural support.
Sources:
The New York Times | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
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