Conexiom, an automation technology company, announced the results of its 2022 State of Hiring and the (Future) State of Manufacturing and Distribution survey.
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The report assessed both the manufacturing and distribution industries with special attention given to Generation Z’s options about opportunities, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Great Resignation and the potential impact of a recession.
The study found that:
- 47% of manufacturing and distribution decision-makers with current hiring challenges believe their companies will invest in technology to improve hiring.
- Among respondents without hiring challenges, 18% plan to streamline operations, while 15% plan to invest in technology to allow them to reduce headcount.
- 70% of Gen Z respondents said technology strongly influenced their desire to pursue a career in a particular industry, while 25% said technology had a moderate influence.
- 80% of manufacturing and distribution decision-makers said they are worried about hiring over the next five years.
- 49% of respondents said they are finding it increasingly difficult to fill open positions.
- 93% of manufacturing leaders feel positive about Gen Z entering the workforce. Only 62% of distribution leaders share these feelings.
“Our survey’s results are shining a light on what the manufacturing and distribution sectors need to do to attract Gen Z talent to fill in the predicted upcoming hiring gap. Our findings show Gen Z is afraid of the looming recession, yet the numbers also show they are ready to look for work and even take on a level of risk in order to be fulfilled,” said Ray Grady, CEO of Conexiom.
