HR's Juggling Act in Manufacturing: Recruitment, Training, and Retention

05/07/24 • 32 min

Human Solutions: Simplifying HR for People who Love HR

In this episode of Human Solutions, Pete Wright sits down with two seasoned HR professionals—Lucille Ward from Package Steel Systems and Terry Cook from AIM HR Solutions—to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in human resources for the manufacturing industry.

As manufacturing faces a shortage of skilled workers, companies are struggling to find the right talent to fill positions like machinists, welders, electricians, and maintenance personnel. Lucille and Terry dive into the reasons behind this skills gap, including shifts in vocational education and societal pressures pushing students towards four-year degrees.

However, as college costs soar and the value of certain degrees comes into question, there may be a pendulum swing back towards vocational training. Lucille shares her company's innovative strategies for recruiting, training, and retaining employees, such as partnering with local organizations, offering on-the-job training, and investing in employee education.

The conversation also delves into the importance of workplace culture, particularly the differences between office and factory floor environments. Lucille candidly discusses the daily challenges of managing diverse teams, implementing HR systems, and keeping employees engaged and motivated.

Throughout the episode, Pete, Terry, and Lucille explore the evolving landscape of HR in manufacturing, offering insights, anecdotes, and practical advice for companies looking to attract and retain top talent in a competitive industry. Tune in to learn more about the creative solutions and strategies being employed by these HR leaders on the front lines of the manufacturing sector.

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Ready to unlock your team's full potential? AIM HR Solutions, rooted in the heart of Massachusetts, brings you tailored coaching and talent development services designed to elevate your business. With our personalized approach, you're not just investing in HR services – you're investing in the growth of yourself and your team. Discover the power of personalized coaching at AIM HR Solutions. Head to AIMHRSolutions.com to learn more and start your journey toward success today.

Previous Episode

Pay Equity & Pay Transparency

How much money do you make? If just hearing that question makes all the little hairs stand up on the back of your neck, you might be a Gen X HR manager.

This week on the show we’re talking all about Pay Equity and and the proposed legislation on Pay Transparency that might just have an impact on the way we talk about pay at work. Joining us are our own industry experts Kyle Pardo and Sarah Piscatelli to help you plan for the coming changes — and challenges — in recruitment and beyond.

Links & Notes

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In a world where businesses face constant change, there's one partner ready to tackle any HR challenge with you. AIM HR Solutions. We're not just any HR firm; we're your personalized problem-solving team, dedicated to customizing solutions just for you. From talent management to compliance, training to onsite services, our approach is tailored to meet your unique needs. With AIM HR Solutions, you're backed by a powerhouse of professionals, ready for proactive planning and immediate challenge. Learn more at AIMHRSolutions.com.

Next Episode

Tough HR Questions • Bereavement Leave, Fake Doctor’s Notes, and Workplace Recordings

Think about trust. Trust is the invisible currency of the workplace. It’s the unspoken agreement between employer and employee that we’ll act in good faith, that we’re all playing by the same rules. But what happens when that trust is tested?

Imagine this: An employee requests bereavement leave, but the employer isn’t sure if the request is genuine. Can they ask for an obituary as proof? Or picture this—an employee hands in a doctor’s note that just doesn’t seem right. Can an employer challenge it? And then there’s the secret recording: a conversation captured without consent, used as evidence in court. In Massachusetts, a two-party consent state, how does that even happen?

These are not hypothetical situations. These are real, messy, and sometimes uncomfortable questions that employers face every day. And today, we’re unpacking them.

Joining Pete Wright this week are Tom Jones and Terry Cook from AIM HR Solutions. They spend their days in the trenches of workplace policy, helping employers navigate the gray areas of HR with clarity and confidence.

In this episode, we’ll explore how businesses can balance compliance, fairness, and trust in the workplace. From bereavement policies to questionable doctor’s notes to the new realities of workplace surveillance, we’re diving into the tough questions—and the answers you need to know.

AIM members can reach the HR Helpline at 800-470-6277 or [email protected] for inquiries Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (EST). Email requests will be responded to within 24 hours.

Links & Notes

Secret Recording of Supervisor Admissible in Civil Case
Ask the Helpline: Is this doctor's note fake?
Sample Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Policy: For employers navigating Massachusetts' Earned Sick Time requirements, this sample policy from the Attorney General’s Office outlines accrual, usage, and documentation rules. Employers should review and tailor it to fit their business needs while ensuring compliance.

AIM members can reach the HR Helpline at 800-470-6277, online, or via email at [email protected] for inquiries Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (EST). Email requests will be responded to within 24 hours.