Filling the Skill Gap in Engineering - Obstacles and Possibilities in US Manufacturing				
                     Bridging the 
Engineering Gap 
in US  
Mwwaw.3nhtiu.c facturing
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ABOUT 
UTheSre is a serious problem facing the US 
manufacturing sector that could change the 
course of its future: a lack of qualified 
engineers. This deficit poses a serious threat to 
America's industrial competitiveness and 
capacity for innovation, making it more than 
just a short-term labor shortage. 77% of 
manufacturing companies say they are 
currently having trouble hiring and keeping 
employees, with engineering positions being 
among the most difficult to fill, according to the 
National Association of Manufacturers.
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Root Causes of the Engineering Sh
ortage
Approximately 27% of manufacturing engineers are over 55 years old, with 
retirement rates accelerating faster than replacement rates
68% of manufacturers cite a disconnect between academic preparation and 
industry needs
Despite STEM initiatives, only 20% of engineering graduates pursue careers 
in manufacturing
U.S. manufacturers compete for talent with tech companies offering higher 
salaries and perceived better working conditions
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Impact on Manufacturing Oper
Dauet tioo a lnacks of engineering personnel, production delays for new product 
launches typically last three to four weeks.
According to 45% of manufacturers, rushed projects brought on by inadequate 
engineering oversight result in quality problems. 
62% of planned automation projects face delays of 6+ months due to lack of 
engineering expertise.
Companies report spending 25-35% more on contract engineers and 
consultants to fill gaps. 
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Long-term Outlook and Economic I
mEcopnoamicc Itmpact: Potential loss of $454 billion in manufacturing GDP by 2028 
if shortage persists
Global Competition: The U.S. is at risk of losing 40% of new manufacturing 
projects to overseas competitors
Innovation Gap: Estimated 30% reduction in new product development capability
Reshoring Potential: Opportunity to reshore $300 billion in manufacturing 
with adequate engineering talent
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Key Points – At a 
Engineering taGlenlta isn secverely lacking in U.S. manufacturing, 
endangering industrial competitiveness and innovation. 
It is estimated that by 2030, 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will remain 
unfilled, potentially costing the economy $1 trillion. 
Engineering roles are among the hardest to fill, with positions taking up to 
60-90 days longer to secure than other roles.
Intense competition from tech companies offering higher salaries and 
modern work environments.
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Conclusion
One of the biggest issues facing American 
manufacturing today is the lack of qualified 
engineers. The statistics make it abundantly 
evident how serious the issue is: by 2030, 
there will be 3.8 million vacant manufacturing 
jobs, billions in possible losses, and major 
operational effects on the entire sector. 
Nonetheless, a way forward is presented by 
the integration of coordinated stakeholder 
action, technology adoption, and strategic 
workforce development.
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